By the end of this year Rwandans are expected to view more than two TV stations, thanks to the yet to be introduced Set Top Box (STB) a special decoder that facilitates reception of digital signal to analog TV sets.
The decoder is in line with the transformation of analog to digital TV viewing, that also involves construction of relevant infrastructure to support the latest technology.
Patrice Mulama, the executive secretary of Media High Council (MHC) noted that establishment of antennas and boosters to support digital signal is in final stages.
He added that the new technology will attract more television companies to start business in Rwanda.
“There was a delay in introducing new TV channels due to a requirement by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) demanding latest infrastructure and so far we have approved some companies both locally and regional.
The regional channels include Nation, Citizen, EATV, and Light House TV while those from local investors are Contact and Tele 10.
Eugène Nyagahene proprieter of Tele 10 and Radio 10 says that he’s ready to start broadcasting soon.
“Now we have everything in a place including a well equipped studio and our TV employees are being oriented on how to use some of the sophisticated equipments,” he remarked.
Nyagahene who was part of a team that spearheaded the transformation urged the government to step in and buy the special decoders and sell them at affordable rates so that early next year Rwandans would begin watching TV with clear signals.
Meanwhile, decoders won’t necessarily be used by those who have digital TV sets but rather favour those who still have the analog ones to get better images.
However, a digital TV cost is twice higher than Analog TV thus many would likely opt for a separate kit of STB to serve as an antenna.
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