Kigali — The Rwanda Development Board / Information Technology (RDB/IT) Thursday officially launched ICT buses in a bid to bridge the digital divide country-wide.

The launch of national pilot project was officiated by the Minister of Commerce and Trade, Monique Nsanzabaganwa, at Kamonyi district head-quarters in the Southern Province.

Nsanzabaganwa said the initiative is meant to give rural areas access to information and communication Technologies.

"The high-tech buses will improve access to use of ICT services in rural areas, and greatly impact on the country's Vision 2020."

Nsanzabaganwa said that the number of buses will be increased and electricity will be provided in Kamonyi.

She also asked residents to acquire computer skills and update themselves on using ICT solutions in their daily lives.

The ICT buses project was launched four months ago.

The buses are mobile internet cafes each equipped with 22 computers with high speed internet to enable the target group access business opportunities and general information.

Hundreds of residents and students welcomed the initiative. Some were given a chance to explore the use of computer and the internet.