Donatien Manirampa, Director General of the Agency for Regulatory and Control of Telecommunications in Burundi-ARCT says about 53% of Burundians are in possession of cell phones, but only around 10% of them have access to internet. “The internet penetration rate remains low due to the telecommunication antennas installed in urban areas,” he says adding that the majority of Burundians live in rural areas.
Donatien Manirampa: “The penetration rate remains low due to the telecommunication antennas installed in urban areas”
He says ARCT expect to avail the coverage of electronic communication networks throughout the country. He also says the government has set up a Universal Service Fund. “It will contribute to the extension of the networks of available operators. “Rural people will then have access to the telecommunication networks and benefit from their services,” he says. Burundi has four cell companies namely Econet, Smart, Viettel Burundi and Onamob.
The Agency for Regulatory and Control of Telecommunications in Burundi-ARCT organized an open day this October 11, to present its achievements, challenges and expectations.
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