• Rwanda agreed with SpaceX’s Starlink to install its first gateway in the country by year-end, connected to the national fiber network.

• Cisco pledged to expand training after already certifying 26,000 Rwandans, aligning with its Africa-wide goal of 3 million learners by 2030.

• Only 34.2% of Rwanda’s population used the internet as of early 2025, leaving two-thirds of citizens offline despite strong digital governance.

Rwanda accelerated its digital transformation strategy by announcing new partnerships with SpaceX’s Starlink and Cisco. The deals were unveiled on the sidelines of the 80th United Nations General Assembly in New York on September 29.

Yves Iradukunda, Rwanda’s Minister of State for ICT, led the delegation and held talks with the two U.S. companies to expand internet access and strengthen local technology 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

Rwanda and Starlink confirmed an agreement on spectrum to allow the installation of the country’s first Starlink gateway by the end of 2025. The facility will connect directly to Rwanda’s national fiber-optic backbone.

Starlink already serves about 5,000 users in Rwanda. Authorities said the next phase will extend access to schools and rural communities, modeled on local pilots and initiatives in Mexico and Niger.

Both sides also agreed to explore innovative financing tools and partnerships with donors to support digital applications in agriculture, healthcare, and public services in rural areas.

Cisco emphasized skills development as its main contribution to Rwanda’s digital agenda. The company said it has already trained 26,000 Rwandans through its Networking Academy program and pledged to help achieve Africa’s target of 3 million learners by 2030.

The Rwandan government showcased its new Cyber Hub, inaugurated this week in Kigali. The hub will anchor certification programs and training in artificial intelligence and cybersecurity.

Despite Rwanda’s reputation as a digital frontrunner, major challenges persist. Extending broadband connectivity beyond major cities and building a skilled workforce remain the country’s top hurdles.

According to DataReportal, only 4.93 million Rwandans were online at the start of 2025, representing 34.2% of the population. Nearly two-thirds of citizens remain offline, limiting the reach of digital initiatives.

If fully implemented, the agreements with Starlink and Cisco could bolster Rwanda’s digital resilience by expanding access and consolidating skills. Analysts say the combination could position Kigali as a regional hub for connectivity and innovation.

This article was initially published in French by Samira Njoya

Adapted in English by Ange Jason Quenum