• MTN Rwanda invests heavily in network upgrades but faces growing service quality problems.

• The Rwandan regulator RURA summoned MTN after two days of major disruptions in voice, SMS, USSD, and inter-network traffic.

• MTN controls 63.2% of Rwanda's telecom market, raising regulatory scrutiny over dominant players.

The Rwandan subsidiary of South African telecom giant MTN is increasing its network investments. At the same time, it struggles with service problems that concern local authorities.

On July 29, the Rwandan Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (RURA) called in MTN Rwanda’s management. The regulator discussed persistent issues affecting the operator’s voice calls, SMS, USSD services, and inter-network connectivity.

The Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Authority (RURA) has noted persistent and recurring issues in MTN’s service delivery, including disruptions in voice services, SMS, USSD, and challenges related to interconnect traffic between service providers.

— Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Authority - RURA (@RURA_RWANDA) July 28, 2025

Local press reports said these disruptions lasted at least two days before MTN promised to restore voice and USSD services.

Yello,

We’re pleased to inform you that all voice and USSD services have been fully restored, and services are now operating normally across the country.

We thank you for your patience and sincerely appreciate your understanding. https://t.co/wA6USqUdEB

— MTN Rwanda (@MTNRwanda) July 28, 2025

Telecom services have become vital as Rwanda’s digital transformation accelerates. Citizens and businesses rely heavily on stable communication networks. The regulatory authority’s intervention signals potential tightening of oversight on major players like MTN.

RURA’s latest figures show MTN Rwanda holds a dominant 63.2% market share as of March 31. Its main competitor, Airtel Rwanda Ltd, accounts for 36.8%.

Adoni Conrad Quenum