According to a recent report by the British technology research firm Cable, Rwanda now provides the most cost-effective broadband internet within the East African Community (EAC) bloc. The report reveals that Rwanda has surpassed Tanzania and Kenya in offering the lowest broadband rates among the eight member states.
The firm’s data indicates that Rwandans are currently paying an average of $43.22 per month for broadband, a significant decrease from last year’s average of $60.96. This represents a 29.1% reduction in prices year-on-year.
In contrast, Tanzania, which previously held the top spot for affordability, has experienced a minor increase in average monthly costs to $43.44. Kenya has also seen a slight decline in its broadband rates, dropping from $49.13 to $47.73 per month.
The recent adjustment in internet rates underscores a competitive market where consumer prices are influenced by market dynamics and regional competition.
Rwanda has significantly reduced internet costs in recent years through the adoption of advanced technologies and infrastructure improvements. Investments in fiber optic networks and enhancements in mobile internet technology by both public and private sectors have led to lower prices. Additionally, government efforts to foster competition among service providers have contributed to these reduced costs.
Conversely, broadband internet remains costly in Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo, with average prices of $304.57 and $170.97, respectively.
In Uganda, the average monthly broadband internet cost is $52.59, while in Somalia, it is slightly higher at $54.58.
In contrast, Sudan offers the lowest broadband rates globally, at just $2.40 per month, despite facing infrastructure challenges.
A report notes that while Sudan’s telecommunications infrastructure is limited and mobile broadband adoption is increasing where available, fixed-line broadband remains exceptionally inexpensive. However, it may not be widely affordable for most residents.
Other countries with notably low broadband costs include Argentina at $5.17, Belarus at $7.03, Ukraine at $7.35, Egypt at $8.31, Romania at $8.60, Vietnam at $8.72, and Kazakhstan at $9.08.