Rwanda: Licensing framework for multimedia services entered into force

On 29 May 2020, the Regulation Governing Licensing of Multimedia Services Provision in Rwanda came into effect, thereby establishing a legal framework for licensing and regulating multimedia services. The regulation stipulates that all providers must obtain authorisation from the Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Authority (RURA). It sets out the conditions for licensing, renewal, modification, transfer, and revocation, while also mandating compliance with safety and technical standards for services such as IPTV, mobile TV, and online broadcasting. Furthermore, the regulation enforces monitoring and compliance, empowering RURA to issue penalties such as fines, suspensions, or revocations for violations such as operating without a license or unauthorised transfers. Existing providers are mandated to apply for licenses within three months of the regulation's enforcement, and conflicting prior regulations are repealed.