Mapula Bodibe, CEO, MTN Rwanda.

MTN Rwanda has introduced paper-based biodegradable SIM cards in the country.

The telco says this initiative marks a significant step to protect the planet and promote sustainable business practices. This is in addition to the eSIM offering by the company

Mapula Bodibe, CEO of MTN Rwanda, this past weekend launched the biodegradable SIM cards.

She said: “We are excited about the introduction of paper-based biodegradable SIMs in the country, a significant stride in our 25-year journey.

“By introducing paper-based SIM cards, we aim to set a precedent for responsible business practices and encourage other industries to join us in fostering a greener, more sustainable future for Rwanda and beyond.”

MTN Rwanda is the East African country's largest mobile operator, with over 7,4 million subscribers.

According to MTN, globally, 430 million tonnes of plastics are produced annually, with 2 000 garbage trucks full of plastic dumped into oceans, rivers, and lakes every day.

The telecoms industry contributes 2 percent to global emissions, with 4,5 billion plastic SIM cards produced in 2020 alone.