About MWC Kigali

The African continent’s most influential connectivity event

In partnership with the Ministry of ICT & Innovation in Rwanda, we look forward to welcoming industry leaders, innovators and policymakers to Kigali.

Learn how you can be part of Africa's ongoing digital transformation and leave with fresh ideas, qualified business leads and a wealth of knowledge to keep you one step ahead.  

Event dates and opening times

21-23 October 2025

Location and venue

Kigali Convention Centre, Rwanda

more about the venue

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ Kigali Registration Information

Is there a fee for registration?  

The MWC Kigali 2025 event is free to attend.  

Invited attendees and VIPs should register using the code provided to ensure that your pass is activated with the right levels of access to programmes and areas within the Event venue.  

Can I register onsite?  

All attendees must register to attend the event, and all registrations must be completed online, before arriving at the venue otherwise you may be refused entry. To start your registration please visit GSMA’s website.  

Is there a minimum age to attend MWC Kigali?  

Yes. The minimum age required to attend the event is 16 years of age however GSMA acknowledges that there may be certain circumstances in which an attendee has to bring an individual younger than 16 years of age i.e. a minor. Should an attendee be required to bring a minor to the event they must request approval from GSMA (approval is at GSMA’s sole discretion) prior to entering the event (please click here to submit the form).  The approval process can take up to 72 hours and any onsite requests may significantly delay your entry to the event, so you are encouraged to make all requests in advance.  

 Before deciding to bring a minor to the event, attendees should be aware that the event environment may not be suitable for all minors due to:  

  • Large crowds 
  • Loud noises and music 
  • Significant visual stimulation (including bright lights, large screens and demonstrations)  

Should you decide to still bring a minor to the Event GSMA are committed to providing you and your minor with a safe experience.  

All attendees that bring a minor to the event, must accompany the minor at all times and shall be  responsible for ensuring both the minor’s safety and the minor’s compliance with all rules and regulations, including all health and safety protocols. Attendees are asked to help maintain a professional, disturbance-free environment. For safety reasons, minors are not permitted entry to the event venue during build-up and dismantling. No exceptions are provided.  

I am having problems with my code, what can I do?  

Check the error message when applying your code.  The code may have expired, or it may be a code that can only be used in certain circumstances such as upgrades.  

If you are still having problems, please contact the person who sent you the code for assistance.   

If it is confirmed that your code is valid, please contact the GSMA team at [email protected].  

Can I register for more than one person?  

You can only register in full for your own pass. All attendees MUST register/log into their account and provide the mandatory personal information required. Attendees will be refused entry to the event if this information has not been provided before they arrive at the event venue.  

How can I register as a Speaker?  

If you have been confirmed as a speaker at the event, please check with the person who confirmed your attendance, for details on how to register.  

Can I register at the venue?  

GSMA do not provide registration desks at the event venue and so anyone needing to register onsite would need to use their own mobile device.  

Is there a registration deadline?  

Registrations can be made until the closing date / time of the event however, to speed up your arrivals process, please ensure that you register before arriving at the event venue.  

  

ID COLLECTION & PHOTO UPLOAD  

Why are GSMA collecting attendee ID?  

We collect attendee ID information in order to comply with local security requirements. During the registration process, you will be requested to provide the following information: 

  • Nationality
  • Document Type (Passport or Rwanda National ID)
  • Document Number (Passport or Rwanda National ID)
  • First and last name and other data on your government issued ID document
  • Upload a recent portrait photo 

What forms of ID can I use to register?  

Only valid passports or a Rwanda National ID card will be accepted to complete your registration to attend the event.  

How can you ensure the security of my personal data?  

The GSMA has commissioned a third-party penetration test and systems audit to ensure the security of all event attendees’ personal information.  

To whom is my ID data and photo disclosed?  

Your personal data will only be disclosed to the Rwandan Ministry of Information Communication Technology and Innovation. This is strictly for the limited purpose of ensuring security at the event.  

For how long is my ID data and photo stored?  

All passport and / or national ID data and photos will be deleted from GSMA’s registration system, seven days after the last day of the event.  

Do I need to bring the same document I used during registration?  

Yes, you will be required to bring the same document you have used for registration, before entering the event venue, otherwise entry may be refused. Security checks will be performed at the venue before entry to the venue is granted.  

 

MY REGISTRATION ACCOUNT  

How do I reset my password?  

If you have forgotten your password, you can reset it by visiting the registration website, clicking on the “Sign In” button and then the “Forgot Password” link.  You will receive a password reset email. Please also check your junk / spam folders for the email.  
  

Why am I not receiving any communications?  

There are many factors as to why emails may not be received, and it may be down to the individual mail server settings, or the spam filtering used by your company. Please check your spam folder and contact the IT department of your company to ask them to whitelist this email address: [email protected] 

How can I add an alternative email address to my registration?  

You can opt to add an additional email address during the registration process, or you can log back into your registration account and update your contact information.  

You will receive copies of your registration emails (except password reset or visa support letter) to this additional email address.  

How can I change my contact information?  

If any of your information has changed, you will need to log back into your account and edit the contact information section. Please note, you will not be able to change your email address.    

How can I stop receiving GSMA emails?  

If you wish to manage other emails that the GSMA may send to you, please access the Email Preference Centre to manage your opt-in choices.  

FAQ Kigali Venue Access

What do I need to access the venue for the event?  

All attendees will need an active Digital Access Pass (through the MWC Event Series App or your Event Registration Home page) to enter the venue.  Please see the Digital Access Pass section below for more details.   

Do you have badges?  

All attendees will be able to collect a networking badge for use once in the venue. This badge is not permitted to be used for access.  

Please click here for more information.   

FAQ Kigali Digital Access Pass

What is Digital Access Pass?  

You will be required to present your Digital Access Pass at the counter to collect your printed badge. Your Digital Access Pass contains the same information as a badge and includes a QR code. It will be accessible on the MWC Series App and from the registration system from the “Attendee Reg Home Page” shortly before the event.   

All attendees will need to show their Digital Access Pass on arrival at the event venue.  

Where can I find my Digital Access Pass?  

Your Digital Access Pass can be accessed via the MWC Event Series App.  

When will the Digital Access Pass be available?  

The Digital Access Pass will be available from Monday, 20 October 2025 for all visitors.  

Do I need my Digital Access Pass inside the venue?  

Your Digital Access Pass can also be used for entry into sessions within the event venue as well as lead retrieval.  

My battery has run out and I cannot use my phone?  

You should ensure your phone is fully charged before you arrive at the venue to ensure you can access the MWC Event Series App as you will need to show your pass before you can enter the venue.  Alternatively, you can log in to your registration account from any type of device (e.g. tablet) and display the pass from there.  

My device is not working / lost / stolen, how can I get in?  

You will need an alternative device – phone, tablet, laptop – to be able to access your registration account and display your Digital Access Pass.  

Is there any other way for me to access my Digital Access Pass?  

If you are unable or do not wish to download the MWC Event Series app, you can access your Digital Access Pass from the home page of your registration account.  

FAQ Kigali MWC Series Event App

What is MWC Series Event APP?  

The MWC Series App offers an immersive experience, bringing the excitement and innovation of #MWC directly to your fingertips. Seamlessly manage your agenda, network and delve into inspiring content at your convenience. In line with our dedication to enhancing networking opportunities, attendees can now connect with all participants across the MWC events series and M360 events series for 9 months, enabling you to ‘network like a pro within the GSMA events community’ and extending the value of your participation well beyond the event’s duration.  

Discover exhibitors, receive valuable recommendations, and tailor your MWC Kigali experience to suit your preferences. With the MWC series app as your companion, immerse yourself in a melting pot of mobile experiences and technological innovations, all conveniently accessible from the palm of your hand.  

The app is the fastest and most efficient way to enter the show. You’ll use it to get your Digital Access Pass, ensuring a smooth and streamlined entry process.  

How can I network with the MWC Event Series App?  

If you opt-in to networking in the MWC Event Series App, your profile becomes visible to others who have also opted in to networking. You will be able to search, view and message attendees from a range of GSMA events, including other MWC events and M360 events. Likewise, others will be able to contact you.  For further details see our networking FAQs.  

How do I get the MWC Event Series App?  

Download MWC Series APP now:  

I can’t login to the MWC Event Series App?  

Your login details are the same details that you used for your event registration account. If you have forgotten your password, please go to your event registration account and follow the instructions to reset your password via the login button.  

I can’t download the MWC Event Series App?  

If you are unable to download the app from any of the available stores, you can access your Digital Access pass from your registration account. However, if you can download the app, please do so.  

FAQ Kigali Networking

Who can I network with through the MWC Event Series App and Event registration?  

You can network with other GSMA event attendees who have also opted in to networking. This includes attendees from other MWC and M360 events.  

How do I opt-in?  

You can opt-in to enhanced networking when registering for the event or via the MWC Event Series app.  

How long can I use the networking function for?  

You can use the networking function for up to 9 months after the event. If you attend another GSMA event, the 9-month time-limit will reset from the last GSMA event you attended.  

Can I opt-out of networking?  

Yes, you can opt-out at any time by disabling the networking function within the app or by logging into your registration account and accessing the networking section. 

Can I prevent other users from messaging me on the app?  

Yes, you can block users on the app. If you block another user, they will not be able to contact you . GSMA provides a positive, harassment-free event experience for all event attendees. If you are subject to inappropriate conduct or made to feel unsafe, please email [email protected]. For more information, please see our Attendee Terms and Conditions.  

Can I use my networking badge to enter the event venue?  

No, networking badges are not permitted for event venue access.  All attendees are required to show their Digital Access Pass either via the MWC Event Series App or from their registration account for entry.  

ENHANCED NETWORKING  

What is enhanced networking?  

GSMA offers a curated networking service which proactively facilitates introductions between like-minded event attendees. If you opt-in to enhanced networking, GSMA may use your professional profile to match you with an organisation who has expressed an interest in meeting people like you. If your profile matches their areas of interest, we will ask if you would like to be introduced to them. If you say yes, GSMA will facilitate the introduction. If you say no, an introduction will not take place, and your personal details will not be shared with the organisation.  

What happens if I decline an invitation to connect?  

If you do not wish to meet an organisation,  GSMA will not share your details with them and no introduction will be made. They will not know that you declined their invitation.  

How do I opt-out?  

You can opt-out at any time by logging into your My MWC account and disabling the enhanced networking service. Once you opt-out, your profile will no longer be visible in the system, and you will not be contacted for any introductions. 

FAQ Kigali Data Privacy

What information do I need to provide to register for the MWC Kigali event?  

All attendees will  be required to provide the following personal data during the registration process:  

a. Global Event’s account profile:  

  • Full name; 
  • Email address; 
  • Gender; 
  • Address; and 
  • Phone number. 
  • Company name; 
  • Job title; 
  • Job level; 
  • Area of responsibility; 
  • Company industry type; 
  • Areas of interest related to the event topics; and 
  • Networking profile photo.  

b. ID Collection:  

  • Nationality
  • Document Type (Passport or Rwanda National ID)
  • Document Number (Passport or Rwanda National ID)
  • Full Name on Passport or Rwanda National ID
  • Portrait Photo for ID purposes 

 Who will access and process my personal data during the registration process?  

In addition to GSMA (the owner and organiser of the event) as data controller, your data will also be processed by the following third parties as part of the registration process:   

  • Jemex Ideas Co;  

ID information:  

  • Ministry of Information Communication Technology and Innovation, Rwanda  

For more information on how GSMA process your personal data, please see our privacy notice.  

Where will my personal data be stored?  

Attendee personal data will be stored on servers located in the European Economic Area (EEA). Personal data of attendees submitted as part of the registration process may, on occasion, be accessed from outside of the EEA as part of administering the event registration process.  

When will my personal data be deleted?  

Your personal data will be deleted as follows:  

a)           Global Event’s account profile: This will be deleted after 12 months from the last time you logged in/accessed your Global Event’s account.  

b)           All passport and / or national ID data and profile photos will be deleted from GSMA’s registration system, seven days after the last day of the eve

FAQ Kigali Exhibitors

Online Exhibitor Manual (OEM)  

Exhibitors can access the Online Exhibitor Manual (OEM) through this link.  

Exhibitor & Partner Invitation System (E&P)  

The GSMA Exhibitor & Partner Invitation System (“E&P System”) is, for the first time, available to MWC Kigali 2025 exhibitors. The system will go live in mid-September. This system allows you to send out invitation, issue codes and track the registration status of your guests and staff. A user guide is available for download in the E&P System.   

How can I access to the E&P system?  

An account login email will be sent to the registration coordinator of your company. If you need to change the registration coordinator, please log in to the Online Event Manual (OEM) and click on ‘My ‘Account’ – ‘Add Contacts’ – ‘Registration co-ordinator’ and click Edit.   

Exhibitor Access  

GSMA encourages those who are overseeing exhibition stand space, to set up in advance of the event and arrive at the event venue ahead of the attendees.   

The registration desk will be open from 7:30am (local time) each day to allow early access for contractors and exhibitors. Other pass types will have access to the venue each day from 8:00am (local time).  

Dates and Event Opening Times  

(Local)  Times   

Tuesday, 21 October 2025, 08:00 to 18:00  

Wednesday, 22 October 2025, 08:00 to 17:30  

Thursday, 23 October 2025, 08:00 to 17:30 

FAQ Kigali Visa and Travel

Do I require a visa to enter Rwanda?  

Citizens of countries members to the following international organizations; African Union, Commonwealth and La Francophonie can gain a visa upon arrival and are waived visa fees for a visit of 30 days. 

A citizen of East African Community Member States  shall be issued a pass/entry visa free of charge upon arrival to stay for the period of six months. 

The following countries to be granted 90 days valid visa free of charge upon arrival: Angola, Benin, Central African Republic, Chad, Cote d’Ivoire, Democratic Republic of Congo, The Federation of Saint Christopher and Nevis, Ghana, Guinea, Indonesia, Haiti, Mauritius, Philippines, Senegal, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Sao Tome and Principe, Singapore and the state Qatar. 

Citizens of all countries that are not visa exempt also have the option to submit an application online or at the Rwanda Diplomatic Missions of the country of residence before departure. Those applying online have the option to pay online or upon arrival. There is no single affiliated Agent that is authorised to apply for visa on your behalf. Such Agents may mislead you and charges more than the required visa fees.  

The visa fees must not exceed 50 USD for a single entry visa or 70 USD for multiple entry. For further information, please refer to the ‘Visa on Arrival’ government website: migration.gov.rw.   ry visa or 70 USD for multiple entry. For further information, please refer here Visa on Arrival (migration.gov.rw)