Rwanda is set to launch its Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) in the next two years, as reported by Soraya Hakuziyaremye, the Deputy Governor of the National Bank of Rwanda (BNR). The aim of this digital currency is to offer citizens a secure, free, and convenient alternative to traditional cash transactions. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance financial inclusion in Rwanda and modernize the country's payment systems, with a projected rollout date in 2026.

In an interview with the New Times, Soraya highlighted the significance of the CBDC project in Rwanda. The introduction of a digital currency is expected to not only provide a more secure and efficient payment method for Rwandans but also to integrate more individuals into the formal financial sector, especially those who are currently unbanked.

Soraya stressed the urgency of the project, pointing out the increasing adoption of CBDCs across Africa, with countries such as Nigeria, Ghana, and South Africa already exploring similar technologies. The alignment of Rwanda's major trading partners with digital currency trends further underscores the necessity for Rwanda to keep pace with the changing financial landscape.

The Deputy Governor disclosed that the initial phase of the project will involve a proof-of-concept stage to test the technology, design, and transaction speed on a small scale, ensuring a smooth implementation of the CBDC. Subsequently, an international pilot program focusing on cross-border payments will be conducted, followed by trials involving individuals and businesses before the official launch.

Recalling the government's feasibility study in May 2024 on a CBDC in Rwanda, Soraya emphasized the opportunities identified in the study for Rwanda to adopt its national digital currency. The study aims to evaluate the potential benefits, risks, and practical aspects of implementing a retail CBDC in the country. The announcement of the CBDC development by the BNR Governor in the previous year underscores the commitment of Rwanda towards digital currency innovation.

She further mentioned the publication of a research paper by the Central Bank resulting from a public consultation process. The report addresses concerns related to data privacy, system resilience, and other potential risks to the financial system while outlining a roadmap to ensure the CBDC's benefits reach all citizens and enhance its adoption.

To verify the technology's viability, the country will soon embark on a test phase to assess the proof of concept, design, and speed at a smaller scale. Additionally, a six-month international testing period for cross-border transactions is planned, followed by trials involving individuals and businesses to validate the efficiency of the digital currency.

The emergence of Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) globally has sparked interest in Africa. While Nigeria has been a frontrunner in implementing its digital currency, other African countries like Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and Mauritius are also exploring the possibility of introducing their central-backed digital currencies. The gradual adoption of CBDCs in Africa presents a transformative financial landscape, with the potential for increased financial inclusion and reduced transaction costs across the continent.