Rwandan media practices self-censorship to avoid upsetting the government, which is known for its intolerance of criticism or dissent.
Freedom House, a civil liberties NGO, acknowledges President Kagame’s role in maintaining stability and economic growth since the 1994 genocide but criticizes his government for suppressing political opposition through surveillance, intimidation, and alleged actions against exiled dissidents.
Radio is the most popular and trusted source of news in Rwanda, followed by television. Online and social media platforms face low public trust, with the government increasingly blocking access to foreign news websites due to the presence of exiled journalists.
Printed newspapers no longer exist in Rwanda since The New Times ceased its print edition in early 2020. BBC Great Lakes content is now exclusively available online, although BBC’s English, French, and Swahili services can still be accessed via FM radio in Rwanda.
As of December 2021, Rwanda had 5.9 million internet users, representing 45% of the population, with significant growth in internet connectivity reported by September 2023.
Facebook leads as the most popular social media platform in Rwanda, holding a 40% market share.
The media landscape in Rwanda includes outlets like The New Times, Igihe, Kigali Today, Rwanda Today, and Umuseke online, each with distinct affiliations or editorial stances.
Television is dominated by state-owned Rwanda TV and privately owned stations like TV One, Tele10, and Kigali Channel 2 (KC 2).
Radio Rwanda is state-owned and broadcasts in multiple languages, while private radio stations like Radio 10, Flash FM, Contact FM, City Radio, Radio Izuba, and Radio Maria (Catholic) also contribute to the media diversity.
The Rwanda News Agency (RNA) serves as the government-owned news agency, reporting extensively on official activities in both English and French, similar to state-owned Radio Rwanda and Rwanda TV.
Credit : BBC
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-14093244