Rwanda will discontinue 3G mobile network services nationwide by June 30, 2027, as part of a government plan to transition fully to faster and more efficient 4G and 5G technologies.
The roadmap, announced by the Ministry of ICT and Innovation (MINICT) on July 28, marks a major step in Rwanda’s digital transformation strategy aimed at improving internet connectivity, expanding network capacity and enhancing the delivery of digital services.
According to MINICT, the spectrum currently occupied by 2G and 3G networks will be reallocated to 4G and 5G services, enabling operators to provide faster internet speeds, higher-quality voice calls and more reliable connectivity.
The ministry said the upgrade will improve access to essential digital services, including mobile money, e-government platforms, online learning and digital healthcare.
While the shutdown of 3G has been scheduled for June 2027, the government said 2G services will only be phased out after an assessment confirms the country’s readiness. The review will consider nationwide 4G coverage, network performance, service reliability and the number of users who have migrated to 4G-compatible devices.
The transition is being coordinated by MINICT and the Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Authority (RURA) in collaboration with telecommunications operators, government institutions and other stakeholders.
Authorities said the migration will ensure that critical services such as voice calls, SMS, mobile money and emergency communications continue operating without interruption. Systems that currently rely on USSD, 2G or 3G technology will also be upgraded to newer platforms.
To ease the transition, the government plans to work with telecom operators to ensure affordable 4G-enabled phones and SIM cards are available, particularly for consumers who still use older devices. Public awareness campaigns will also be rolled out to help users prepare for the switch.
Pilot tests to phase out older network technologies will be conducted in selected areas during 2026 while the nationwide expansion of 4G infrastructure continues.
The government has urged mobile subscribers to check whether their phones and SIM cards are compatible with 4G technology. MTN Rwanda customers can dial 4561# to verify their SIM card status, while Airtel Rwanda users can dial 2555#.
Businesses and public institutions that still depend on 2G or 3G technologies—including those operating mobile payment systems, electricity infrastructure, transport services, healthcare, security and other essential services—have been advised to begin upgrading their systems to avoid disruptions.
MINICT said it will continue providing technical guidance and updates throughout the migration as Rwanda moves towards a fully 4G- and 5G-powered digital economy.
