Rwanda reached new agreements with SpaceX’s Starlink and Cisco at the UNGA.

Starlink will set up its first gateway in Rwanda, linked to the national fiber network.

Cisco pledged more training as Kigali launched its new Cyber Hub for AI and security.

On the sidelines of the 80th United Nations General Assembly in New York, which ended on September 29, Rwanda announced fresh initiatives under its digital strategy. The delegation, led by State Minister for ICT Yves Iradukunda, held two key meetings with SpaceX and Cisco aimed at boosting connectivity infrastructure and strengthening local tech skills.

Hon. @yves_Iradukunda met with @SpaceX leadership to review the rollout of #Starlink in Rwanda, now serving about 5,000 users. Both sides confirmed agreement on spectrum with @RURA_RWANDA and @RwandaSpace that will enable installation of the first Starlink gateway in Rwanda… pic.twitter.com/XABY8HE3nm

— Ministry of ICT and Innovation | Rwanda (@RwandaICT) September 30, 2025

With SpaceX, through its Starlink unit, discussions confirmed an agreement on spectrum use for the installation of Rwanda’s first Starlink gateway by the end of the year. The gateway will connect directly to the national fiber optic network, supporting expansion of a service that already counts nearly 5,000 users. The goal now is to extend access to schools and rural communities, drawing on local pilot projects and experiences in Mexico and Niger. Both sides also agreed to explore innovative financing models and partnerships with donors to support applications in agriculture, health, and rural public services.

Cisco, meanwhile, placed the focus on skills. The U.S. tech giant recalled that 26,000 Rwandans have already been trained through its Networking Academy and pledged to help reach the continent-wide target of 3 million learners by 2030. Kigali presented its new Cyber Hub, launched this week, which will serve as a center for certifications and training in artificial intelligence and cybersecurity.

These announcements come as Rwanda, widely recognized for its digital ambition, continues to face two main challenges: expanding broadband beyond major cities and training a new generation of tech talent. According to DataReportal, as of early 2025 only 4.93 million Rwandans used the internet, representing 34.2% penetration—meaning nearly two-thirds of citizens remain offline.

If implemented, the new agreements could become a decisive lever for Rwanda’s digital resilience—broadening internet access through Starlink while deepening skills through Cisco. This combination could place the country in a strong position to become a regional hub for connectivity and digital innovation.