Africa Digest News

MTN Rwanda is rethinking device access with Tunga Taci Na MTN, an innovative financing programme launched in partnership with Yellow.

Announced recently, this initiative allows customers to own high-quality smartphones from leading brands like Samsung, Tecno, Itel, and Infinix with a low initial down payment of Rwf 16,000 and affordable monthly instalments spread over 12 months.

This programme is a game-changer for digital inclusion in Rwanda, enabling more people to access essential tools for communication, education, and business.

How Tunga Taci Na MTN Works

The Tunga Taci Na MTN programme is tailored to suit varying financial capacities, making it easier for Rwandans to own a smartphone without the burden of a large upfront cost. Here’s how it works:

• Low Down Payment: Customers pay an initial Rwf 16,000 to acquire their chosen smartphone.
• Flexible Instalments: The remaining cost is spread over 12 months, with repayment plans customised based on the customer’s financial transactions and credit behaviour, assessed through Rwanda’s Credit Reference Bureau (CRB).
• Brand Options: Choose from a range of smartphones by Samsung, Tecno, Itel, and Infinix, ensuring options for different budgets and preferences.
• Eligibility: Customers can check their eligibility by dialling 18212# on the MTN network. Requirements include being an active MTN customer for at least 12 months, using MTN services like MoMo, data, voice, and SMS, and having no outstanding MoMo loans.

This initiative aligns with MTN Rwanda’s mission to bridge the digital divide by making smartphones, described as “gateways to opportunity”, accessible to more people.

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Why Tunga Taci Na MTN Matters

Smartphones are no longer a luxury; they are vital for accessing digital services, education, financial tools, and business opportunities.

The Tunga Taci programme addresses affordability barriers, a key obstacle to smartphone ownership in Rwanda. By offering flexible payment options, MTN Rwanda and Yellow are empowering individuals and families to stay connected in a modern digital world.

MTN Rwanda’s CEO, Ali Monzer, emphasised, “This programme is part of our broader mission to ensure everyone can benefit from digital services.”

Similarly, Yellow’s CEO, Micheal Heyink, highlighted their commitment to providing accessible services through this partnership.

Benefits of the Programme

• Affordability: The low down payment and instalment plan make premium smartphones accessible to a wider audience.
• Digital Inclusion: By increasing smartphone penetration, the programme supports Rwanda’s goal of becoming a digital hub.
• Bundled Offers: Some devices come with free data, voice, and SMS bundles, enhancing the value of the purchase.
• Wide Availability: The programme is accessible through MTN Service Centres, MTN Connect Shops, VIP shops for Tecno, Infinix, and Itel, and select informal market retailers.

Comparison with MTN’s Macye Macye Program

Tunga Taci Na MTN builds on the success of MTN Rwanda’s Macye Macye device financing programme, launched in 2022, which has served over 150,000 customers and increased smartphone penetration by 25.7%.

While Macye Macye offers similar instalment-based financing, Tunga Taci Na MTN specifically partners with Yellow to streamline the process and expand brand options.

Both programmes require customers to be active MTN users and offer flexible repayment plans (daily, weekly, or monthly).

Eligibility and How to Apply

To participate in Tunga Taci Na MTN:

1. Be an active MTN Rwanda customer for at least 12 months.
2. Use MTN services like MoMo, data, voice, and SMS.
3. Have no outstanding MoMo loans.
4. Dial 18212# to check eligibility.
5. Visit an MTN Service Centre, Connect Shop, or authorised retailer to select a smartphone and sign the financing agreement.

Repayments can be made via Mobile Money or, for corporate plans, through a bank account. Devices may be locked if repayments are overdue (24 hours for daily plans, 7 days for weekly, or 30 days for monthly), but they can be unlocked upon payment or at an MTN Service Centre.

Why Choose Tunga Taci Na MTN?

This programme stands out for its:

• Affordable Entry Point: Starting at Rwf 16,000, it’s one of the most accessible financing options in Rwanda.
• Trusted Brands: Partnerships with globally recognised brands like Samsung and Transsion’s Tecno, Itel, and Infinix ensure quality and reliability.
• Customer-Centric Approach: Flexible repayment plans cater to individual financial situations, making it inclusive for diverse income levels.

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Impact on Rwanda’s Digital Landscape

The Tunga Taci Na MTN initiative is a significant step toward achieving Rwanda’s vision of a digitally inclusive society.

With mobile subscriptions in Rwanda reaching 7.8 million in 2025 and mobile data traffic projected to grow 12-fold by the end of the year, programmes like this are critical for sustaining growth.

By increasing access to 4G-enabled smartphones, MTN Rwanda is promoting connectivity, innovation, and economic progress.

Looking Ahead

The Tunga Taci Na MTN programme, launched in partnership with Yellow, is redefining smartphone ownership in Rwanda.

With a modest Rwf 16,000 down payment and 12-month instalments, Rwandans can now access smartphones from Samsung, Tecno, Itel, and Infinix, unlocking opportunities for education, business, and connectivity. To learn more or apply, dial 18212# or visit an MTN Service Centre today.

Ronnie Paul is a seasoned writer and analyst with a prolific portfolio of over 1,000 published articles, specialising in fintech, cryptocurrency, and digital finance at Africa Digest News.