Rwandans can now access more than 20,000 entertainment titles, including movies, series, live sports, news and children's programmes, through MTN One TV, a digital streaming platform with subscription packages starting at Rwf250. Launched on November 12, the platform offers an alternative to traditional television and international over-the-top (OTT) streaming services while creating opportunities for local creatives to distribute and monetise their content. Unlike conventional television services that often require satellite dishes and decoders, MTN One TV allows customers to watch content directly on their smartphones. Somdev Sen, MTN Rwanda’s Chief Consumer and Digital Officer, said the platform aims to establish a streaming service that reflects local entertainment needs while giving Rwandan content greater visibility. “We are talking a lot about OTTs. There are a lot of OTTs across, but what is that OTT that belongs to Rwanda? Most likely, MTN One TV is that OTT that belongs to Rwanda,” he noted. The platform offers movies, series, sports, live streaming and children's educational content, with subscription packages designed to accommodate different budgets. “Here, we are talking about very simple plans. Rwf250 for a daily pack, Rwf1,000 for weekly and Rwf2,500 for a monthly pack, which is significantly more affordable,” he said. ALSO READ: MTN Rwanda’s network upgrade with VoLTE to boost call quality, digital connectivity Opening opportunities for local creatives Beyond providing entertainment, MTN One TV aims to give Rwandan filmmakers, comedians, musicians and other content producers access to wider audiences and potential revenue streams. Sen said many young people are already producing content but struggle to find distribution channels beyond their immediate communities. Through the platform, local creators could tap into MTN's customer base, which is approaching nine million subscribers. “MTN One TV is not just about giving international content. It’s also about promoting the talent that we have in Rwanda to be able to put their content on this platform,” he said. Sen cited initiatives such as Gen Z Comedy, whose creators have established digital streaming channels, as examples of local content producers who could potentially benefit from wider distribution. Interested creators can approach MTN directly or work through local channels and content partners. Their content must undergo quality assessment, with contractual arrangements established with relevant partners before being considered for the platform. MTN works with DG Virgo as its platform partner, while the telecom company provides connectivity, customer reach and distribution opportunities. ALSO READ: MTN Rwanda’s Rwf50m grant to equip 6,100 girls, women with digital skills Accessing the platform Customers can download the MTN One TV application from Android or iOS app stores, register using their mobile phone numbers and select a subscription package. Payments can be made through locally supported airtime purchases, with daily, weekly and monthly options. Sen said MTN is also working with local broadcasters to bring more domestic television channels onto the platform, expanding the range of local and international content available to subscribers. Supporting Rwanda’s digital ambitions The launch comes as Rwanda expands digital connectivity and smartphone adoption, with increasing attention on the content people access and create through digital platforms. Yves Iradukunda, Minister of State in the Ministry of ICT and Innovation, said the platform addresses a gap in the country's digital transformation, particularly the availability of relevant and locally produced content. “There has been a gap about what is the content that our population is consuming when they go online,” he said. He welcomed the platform as an opportunity for young creatives to monetise their work, reach larger audiences and potentially access international markets. However, he urged MTN to ensure creators benefit fairly through transparent commercial arrangements and respect for copyright. He also emphasised the importance of network quality and speed in delivering a reliable streaming experience. MTN Rwanda Chief Executive Officer Ali Monzer said the platform reflects changes in how people access entertainment and connect through technology. Recalling how neighbours once gathered around a single television to watch football matches and films, he said digital technology had transformed entertainment by making it accessible through personal devices. “Technology is not about signal. It’s not about data. Technology is about connection,” he said. He added that expanding connectivity was creating opportunities for young people to produce and distribute their own stories.
