On October 2, 2025, the Rwanda Information Society Authority (RISA), in collaboration with the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), the Ministry of ICT and Innovation (MINICT), and the Ministry of Local Government (MINALOC), officially launched a Service Access Point (SAP) in Muhura Sector, Gatsibo District.

The event was attended by the Mayor of Gatsibo District, who was also the guest of honour, highlighting the importance of local leadership and ownership in advancing Rwanda’s digital transformation agenda. Other dignitaries in attendance included the Permanent Secretary in MINALOC, the Chief Operations and Strategy at RISA, the KOICA Rwanda Country Director, other representatives from both local and national institutions and local residents.

The launch of the Muhura SAP marks a major step in Rwanda’s ongoing efforts to bridge the digital divide and bring e-Government services closer to citizens. Service Access Points are community-based digital centers that provide access to laptops, internet connectivity, smart boards, and trained support staff to help citizens access government services online through platforms such as Irembo. These centers also promote digital literacy and support local innovation, especially among youth, women, and entrepreneurs.

The newly re-equipped SAPs form part of a broader national initiative to revamp and modernize 100 SAPs by 2029, as outlined in the SAP Strategy 2025–2029. This effort aligns with Rwanda’s National Strategy for Transformation (NST2) and Vision 2050, both of which emphasize building a knowledge-based economy where all citizens can participate in and benefit from digital growth.

The involvement of district leaders, particularly the Mayor of Gatsibo as Guest of Honour, symbolizes strong local engagement and commitment to the sustainability of the SAPs. Districts play a critical role in managing and maintaining the centers to ensure they remain accessible and functional. Under the current management model, RISA provides strategic oversight, equipment, and capacity building, while district authorities oversee local operations, including maintenance and community mobilization. Digital Ambassadors trained under the Digital Ambassador Program (DAP) are also deployed to assist citizens in accessing services and developing digital skills.

“This Service Access Point represents a new era for our communities,” said Innocent Asiimwe Mudenge, Chief Operations and Strategy Officer at RISA. “By working closely with districts and our partners, we are ensuring that every citizen, no matter where they live, can access digital services easily, efficiently, and with dignity. This is your facility; use it. You will find your Digital Ambassadors here; those who used to train you from home are now stationed at the SAP, ready to assist you in accessing digital services and to show you how to do it yourself.” 

Mr. Bob Gakire, the Permanent Secretary in MINALOC, encouraged citizens to take full advantage of the new facility. “This service access point was built with you in mind,” he said. “It is your space to learn, connect, and grow. Use it to access the services you need, to strengthen your businesses, and to build your future. No Rwandan should be left behind in the digital era.”

Rwanda originally launched 262 SAPs nationwide, but many required upgrades to remain fully functional. The re-equipping of five SAPs, in Kayonza, Gatsibo, Rutsiro, Burera, and Ruhango Districts, marks the first phase of the modernization plan. These flagship SAPs serve as community digital hubs designed to improve citizens’ access to e-services and to foster inclusive growth at the grassroots level.

The Muhura SAP launch demonstrates Rwanda’s commitment to ensuring that every citizen has the opportunity to participate in the digital economy. By fostering strong collaboration between national institutions, local governments, and development partners like KOICA, the initiative is helping transform communities, promote inclusivity, and empower citizens with the tools and knowledge needed to thrive in an increasingly digital world.

The re-equipping of SAPs not only strengthens service delivery but also advances the country’s vision of achieving 100% digital literacy by 2029 and building a resilient, knowledge based economy where no one is left behind.