Rwanda will gradually phase out its 2G and 3G mobile network, with the government planning a series of readiness checks, pilot shutdowns and system migrations before the nationwide switch-off scheduled for June 30, 2027. The implementation will be led by the Ministry of ICT and Innovation (MINICT), the Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Authority (RURA) and mobile network operators, with other affected institutions involved through a joint working group. ALSO READ: MTN Rwanda begins 5G network rollout Under the plan, operators will spend the remainder of 2026 expanding 4G coverage, improving the reliability of Voice over LTE (VoLTE) and identifying devices and services that still depend on 2G and 3G networks, according to MINICT. They will also begin migrating services to newer technologies and conduct trial 3G shutdowns in selected areas. The pilot shutdowns are intended to identify problems before the nationwide transition. Authorities will assess issues such as network coverage, call quality and the continuity of services including calls, SMS and mobile money. During the first half of 2027, operators and service providers will focus on completing the migration of critical systems, notifying customers and strengthening customer support ahead of the switch-off. ALSO READ: Rwanda, SoftBank deliver ‘World’s first 5G connectivity from the stratosphere’ A joint team will also be established to respond to problems during the transition, while monitoring and reporting will increase as the June 30 deadline approaches. The government said the switch-off will only proceed once key conditions are met, including adequate 4G coverage, reliable VoLTE services, affordable 4G-enabled phones and the migration of systems that still depend on older networks. Some critical services may be given temporary extensions if they face genuine difficulties in migrating. However, the government said such extensions will require regulatory approval and a clear migration plan and will not be open-ended. Businesses and institutions are also expected to prepare for the transition. They have been urged to identify equipment and services that rely on 2G or 3G, including USSD services, payment terminals, utility meters, security systems and vehicle trackers. Attention will be given to essential services such as mobile money, payments, utilities, transport, healthcare, public safety and government services. For ordinary users, the government is advising those with 3G-only phones to check whether their devices and SIM cards support 4G and upgrade where necessary. The plan also includes measures to keep 4G devices affordable, as authorities acknowledge that the cost of upgrading phones could affect some users. Rwanda is currently working towards retiring the 2G network by December 2028. However, the government said the final date will depend on the outcome of the 3G transition, including network coverage, service continuity, the number of people still using older devices and the migration of systems that depend on 2G. The government will review the 3G switch-off before confirming the final timetable for the 2G retirement.
