Technology is powerful. It connects families, unlocks opportunity, and opens the world to young minds. But left unguided, it can also overwhelm, exclude, or harm. That is the reality we leaned into in 2025. As Rwanda’s digital ecosystem accelerated, one truth became clear: connectivity is never neutral. Its impact depends on how responsibly it is built and managed. At MTN Rwanda, we see technology as something to steward, not just deploy. Innovation must move hand in hand with care, accountability, and long-term impact. This mindset is not an add-on to our business it is how we build trust, manage risk, and create shared value. As more Rwandans came online, our responsibility grew. Our role went beyond coverage and speed. It became about trust and about recognizing that connecting millions of people requires intention and foresight. This responsibility is most visible when it comes to children. Through our partnership with UNICEF, we saw how young people experience the digital world curious, fast learning, but exposed to risks they may not fully understand. That is why Child Online Protection is not a programme for us; it is a commitment. Our USSD Child Online Protection tool allows parents and caregivers to block harmful content using the simplest technology available. No apps. No complexity. Just practical control where it matters most. We also zero-rated child-focused e-learning platforms to ensure learning continued without added financial pressure on families. Alongside this, we listened. Together with UNICEF, we conducted a national Child Online Protection study, engaging children, parents, and caregivers. Their voices are shaping stronger safeguards, with findings to be shared in early 2026. Our responsibility extends beyond children. In partnership with UN Women, we supported national efforts to combat gender-based violence, using our platform to reinforce a simple truth: safety and dignity must exist in every space online and offline. Across 2025, our Corporate Social Investment focused on inclusive growth and digital access. Through Level Up Your Biz, 40 agents received business training and working capital support. Connect Women in Business equipped 500 women with financial, legal, and digital skills, mentorship, and capital to grow enterprises across diverse sectors, including vulnerable groups. Under Y’ello Care 2025, MTN employees volunteered nationwide, reaching 1,558 beneficiaries through digital skills training, Mobile Money and e-commerce support, and the donation of digital equipment. We provided devices and solar panels to Community Health Workers in low-power areas and partnered with Rwanda Assistive Technology Access to deliver accessible smartphones to visually impaired individuals. We also invested in education supporting students through Imbuto Foundation scholarships, university partnerships, and the Dusangire Lunch 2.0 programme, which helped 1,800 students stay in school and learn with dignity. As we enter 2026, our direction is clear. We will continue to steward technology in ways that protect, empower, and include especially those most at risk of being left behind. Our work will remain anchored in health, education, entrepreneurship, and national priorities, guided by strong ESG principles. This is how we choose to lead. This is how we choose to connect. Monzer Ali is the CEO MTN Rwandacell PLC
