Rwanda’s Central Bank to reinstate mobile money charges

In Rwanda, significant changes are taking place as the country navigates the challenges posed by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The latest development announced by the Rwanda Development Board is the resumption of tourism activities, with specific measures in place to ensure the safety of both visitors and residents. One notable change is the reduction in the prices of gorilla-tracking permits, making it more accessible for both locals and foreigners residing in Rwanda. The cost for random citizens has been reduced from $1500 to $200, while foreigners living in Rwanda will now pay $500. However, the price remains at $1500 for foreign visitors. This move is aimed at revitalizing the tourism sector, which has been severely impacted by the pandemic. The government hopes that these changes will not only attract more tourists but also provide opportunities for local residents to explore their own country. In a recent interview, Hudson Kutesa, a journalist with the New Times, shared insights on the public reaction to these new measures. He highlighted that the reduction in gorilla-tracking prices has been well-received, especially among ordinary Rwandans who previously found the costs prohibitive. The move has been viewed as a positive step towards making tourism more inclusive and accessible to a wider audience. Despite these changes, concerns remain regarding the spread of COVID-19 in certain regions of the country. While the government has eased restrictions in some areas, spikes in confirmed cases have been observed in places like Ruhengeri. Kutesa emphasized that vigilance is necessary to prevent further outbreaks and ensure the safety of all citizens. As the country gradually reopens various sectors, including entertainment and tourism, questions arise about the readiness to resume business as usual. Kutesa noted that while progress has been made in controlling the spread of the virus in certain regions, a cautious approach is still needed. Certain aspects of daily life, such as unrestricted travel between provinces and large gatherings, may need to remain restricted until more concrete solutions, like a vaccine or effective treatment, are available. In a significant move, the National Bank of Rwanda has announced the reinstatement of charges on mobile money transactions, effective from June 22nd. After three months of free transactions, telecom companies will now be allowed to levy charges on mobile money services. Kutesa pointed out that the removal of charges had led to a significant increase in mobile money usage, with a 450% surge in transactions during the free period. While the impact of reinstating charges remains to be seen, it is expected that the uptake of mobile money services may decrease. In conclusion, Rwanda is navigating a delicate balance between reviving key sectors like tourism and maintaining efforts to combat the spread of COVID-19. The recent changes in pricing for gorilla-tracking permits and the reinstatement of mobile money charges reflect the country's proactive approach to addressing the challenges brought about by the pandemic. As Rwanda continues to adapt to the evolving situation, strict measures and public cooperation will be essential in ensuring the health and well-being of its population.