Rwanda approves new funding for digital project

The Rwandan Parliament has approved 17 million euros (about 19 million USD) from the International Development Association (IDA) to support the Rwanda Digital Acceleration Project (RDAP). The funding was announced on October 8 by the Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning and aims to develop digital infrastructure such as a national digital identity system, a government Data Hub, and cybersecurity measures.

Digital project details and partners

The Rwanda Information Society Authority (RISA) describes the RDAP as a five-year program supported by the World Bank and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB). The project seeks to expand access to broadband internet and digital public services while encouraging technological innovation. It focuses on digitizing government operations to improve efficiency and service delivery.

Funding adjustments and project timeline

In 2026, the World Bank approved an additional 20 million USD to cover costs from 2024 that were canceled and to continue the project, which has been extended to June 2028. This phase will emphasize strengthening the unique digital identity system, improving electronic government services, and enhancing cybersecurity and data management capabilities.

Progress and ongoing challenges

By December 2025, 258 public services had been introduced or improved under the project, and 3,054 public sites had been connected to broadband, working toward a goal of 5,000. The Digital Ambassadors program had also trained about 2.5 million people in digital skills. However, the government Data Hub is still under development, with the World Bank stating that its implementation depends on a new tender process. Several cybersecurity and data protection initiatives are also in the tendering phase.