Rwanda's investments into satellite technology boosts internet penetration, looks to build space industry

Rwanda's vision for the future is reaching new heights as the country makes significant investments in satellite technology to boost internet penetration and pave the way for the development of the space industry. The Ruan Despesse Initiative, which extends beyond the partnership with OneWeb, is set to revolutionize the country's technological landscape. Patrick Nyirishema, Director-General of Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Authority (RURA), shared insights on the country's satellite ambitions in an exclusive interview with CNBC Africa. The country's ambitious satellite endeavors include the deployment of a constellation of 900 satellites into orbit, with an initial launch of six satellites already completed in partnership with OneWeb. The commercial services are expected to be operational by early 2021, marking a significant milestone in Rwanda's technological journey. Additionally, Rwanda has collaborated with Japanese partners to launch CubeSats for earth observation purposes, further expanding its footprint in space. These initiatives aim to inspire and engage the nation's youth, encouraging them to dream big and explore opportunities beyond the confines of the earth. By fostering a conducive environment for innovation and creativity, Rwanda is nurturing a new generation of aspiring astronauts and technology enthusiasts. Nyirishema emphasized the long-term nature of the investments, highlighting that the satellite program is a continuous initiative with varying degrees of financial commitments and capacity-building efforts. One notable achievement is the training of over 60 local students to assemble satellites, showcasing the country's commitment to developing indigenous talent in the space technology sector. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to leverage space technology for national development and to break barriers in the minds of young Rwandans, empowering them to reach for the stars. With significant investments on the horizon, Rwanda is poised to establish itself as a key player in the global space industry. The country's landlocked geography has not hindered its aspirations for aerospace expansion, as it strategically embraces technologies that transcend traditional constraints. As Rwanda advances its space program, a comprehensive policy framework is underway to guide the nation's ambitions and unlock new opportunities in the aerospace sector. The phased implementation approach will focus on building essential capabilities in human resources and infrastructure, laying the foundation for future growth and innovation. Private sector engagement is vital to the success of Rwanda's space initiatives, with partnerships playing a crucial role in driving innovation and sustainable development. Collaborations with private companies and academic institutions have been instrumental in advancing the country's space agenda, fostering entrepreneurship and investment in the burgeoning sector. By leveraging the expertise and resources of diverse stakeholders, Rwanda aims to co-create a vibrant space ecosystem that stimulates economic growth and technological advancement. In terms of mobile and internet penetration rates, Rwanda has made considerable progress, with mobile penetration currently standing at around 78-79 percent and internet penetration at 58 percent. The government's 'Connector One' initiative is aimed at bridging the digital divide and transitioning mobile users to data subscribers, thereby increasing internet accessibility for all citizens. Despite the existing gaps, Rwanda's steady strides towards enhancing connectivity and digital inclusion reflect the country's commitment to harnessing technology for socio-economic transformation. As Rwanda sets its sights on the future of space technology and embarks on a transformative journey towards the stars, the nation's unwavering ambition and collaborative spirit are poised to propel it to new heights in the global arena of innovation and exploration.