The presentation took place in Kigali during the Mobile World Congress and represents a significant advancement in MTN’s broader strategy to foster digital inclusion across Rwanda.
Ms. Baza is designed to simplify navigation through MTN’s wide range of offers and services, acting as a gateway to digital solutions such as mobile financial services, online education, and digital health initiatives. The virtual assistant supports four languages — English, French, Kinyarwanda, and Swahili — addressing language barriers and making it easier for more Rwandans, including those with limited digital literacy, to access vital information and services via mobile devices.
Ali Monzer, CEO of MTN Rwanda, emphasised that while Ms. Baza is currently a prototype, the company is committed to deploying the tool in the coming months. He highlighted the importance of responsible AI, stating that the assistant is built with inclusivity, transparency, and accessibility in mind. Notably, Ms. Baza will also be accessible to individuals without smartphones, ensuring broader reach across different segments of the population.
This initiative supports Rwanda’s Smart Rwanda strategy, which aims to leverage emerging technologies to improve citizens’ quality of life and stimulate economic growth. Data from the Rwandan telecommunications regulator’s second quarter of 2025 indicates that MTN holds a dominant 64% market share in the country, compared to Airtel Rwanda’s 36%, underscoring MTN’s influential position in Rwanda’s telecom landscape.
