Rwanda’s Ministry of ICT and Innovation (MINICT), together with the Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Authority (RURA), has confirmed that the country’s 3G mobile networks will be switched off nationwide by June 30, 2027. A 2G switch-off is also being targeted for December 2028, pending the outcome of further assessments. The transition is designed to reduce the cost and spectrum burden of operating multiple network generations while freeing up capacity for 4G and 5G services. For device manufacturers and importers, the timeline sets a clear deadline for phasing out legacy 2G and 3G dependent products in the Rwandan market.
Rwanda's 3G and 2G Network Retirement Timeline
MINICT and RURA have set June 30, 2027 as the nationwide switch-off date for 3G networks. A 2G switch-off is targeted for December 2028, though that date remains subject to the outcome of ongoing readiness assessments. The transition follows a phased schedule: 2026 is set aside for a preparation phase in which operators expand 4G coverage and conduct trial shutdowns, while early 2027 is reserved for final migration of critical systems and customer notifications ahead of the June deadline.
Why Rwanda Is Phasing Out Legacy Mobile Networks
Operating 2G, 3G, and 4G networks simultaneously creates significant inefficiencies for mobile operators, driving up maintenance costs and consuming spectrum that could otherwise support higher-capacity services. Rwanda’s government cites cost reduction, lower spectrum consumption, and freeing up radio spectrum for advanced technologies as key drivers of the transition. The move is also expected to deliver faster connections, greater network capacity, and improved security through 4G and 5G.
Conditions That Must Be Met Before the 3G Switch-Off
Rwanda’s government has said it will proceed with the 3G switch-off only once several conditions are verified, including 4G coverage and call quality across the country, including rural areas, and the reliability of Voice over LTE (VoLTE) for emergency calls. Regulators also want assurance that calls, SMS, mobile money, and other essential services will continue without interruption, that USSD-dependent services have been migrated, that connected equipment such as meters, trackers, and security systems has been replaced, and that affordable 4G-capable phones are available to consumers.
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Quick Country Facts
Rwanda
Certification Body: Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Agency (RURA)
Certification Type: Mandatory
License Validity: Indefinite
Application Language: English
Legal License Holder: Local Representative
In-Country Testing Requirement: Testing Not Required
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