Airtel Rwanda has unveiled what it says is “Africa’s first spam alert service,” an AI-powered tool that identifies and flags suspicious messages.
The new system doesn’t block messages outright, since some phrases like “send me money” can appear in legitimate communication. Instead, the AI detects high-risk patterns and flags them with a warning, encouraging users to pause and verify before acting.
The system is already active for SMS, with plans underway to extend coverage to voice calls and social media platforms in the coming months.
“Airtel is deeply committed to stopping fraud at the source,” Emmanuel Hamez, Managing Director of Airtel Rwanda said that the launch last week. “That starts with proper SIM card registration. We require an ID, a verified photo, and a physical location for every user. We’ve also integrated fingerprint verification through NIDA at all of our nearly 3,000 registration points.”
Hamez added that fraud has become increasingly sophisticated, often exploiting human vulnerability and emotional urgency. “Many Rwandans have received messages claiming to be from a relative in trouble, asking for money. Even I have,” he said. “It’s not always about being naive, we all have distractions, and scammers take advantage of that.”
The tool, Hamez said, was developed in collaboration with security agencies including the Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB) and the National Cyber Security Authority (NCSA). It has been active behind the scenes for two weeks.
RIB’s Division Manager for Cybercrime, Akilimali Shema, said scams are evolving alongside technology. “People have reported receiving calls that sound exactly like their own family members. Same voice, same tone. They didn’t realise it was a deepfake. That’s why we’re investing in AI. Prevention is key, but awareness is the first defence.”
