28 October 2025
The Rwandan government has announced the rollout of the National Emergency Telecommunications Plan (NETP), a comprehensive three-year strategy (2025–2027) aimed at ensuring the resilience and continuity of critical communications during disasters.
Developed collaboratively by the Ministry of ICT and Innovation (MINICT) and the Ministry of Emergency Management (MINEMA), the plan sets out a framework to safeguard essential telecommunications infrastructure against various hazards, including floods, landslides, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and pandemics.
Structured around four core pillars — prevention, preparedness, response, and recovery — the NETP emphasises establishing a national emergency communications centre, integrating satellite networks for remote and isolated regions, and creating a unified early warning system to disseminate vital information swiftly to communities. Additionally, the plan prioritises training programs and simulation exercises to enhance the capabilities of emergency response teams.
Aligned with international standards such as the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) guidelines and Rwanda’s commitments under the 2015–2030 Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction, the NETP also supports global initiatives like the United Nations’ "Early Warnings for All," which promotes effective warning systems for climate and technological hazards worldwide.
By implementing this strategic framework, Rwanda aims to not only maintain uninterrupted communications during crises but also to position itself as a regional leader in digital resilience. The NETP is envisioned to accelerate Rwanda’s evolution into a technology hub capable of managing emergencies, protecting critical infrastructure, and ensuring all citizens have reliable access to information even amid disasters, thereby reinforcing national security and social stability.
