Despite the potential of a mobile app launched this week to speed up feedback on private sector issues, business operators complain of its shortcomings.

Members of Rwanda Public Private dialogue, a platform between private and public sector, say the system known as Integrated Business Management Information lacks some categories that touch on issues affecting their operations.

Also cited are cases where issues need dialogue among concerned parties, slow services as system may be overloaded with queries, and lack of detailed categories of business inquiries.

“What if the system receives 300 SMS of queries?” asked a member of RPPD at the app launch.

But the brains behind the app counsel patience, arguing that improvements will be made with time. They say that as a new innovation, the app takes time to be adopted; as some use mobile phone mainly for voices services in communication.

“Some problems will be resolved immediately; but if necessary there will be dialogues, the system will speed business problem solving,” said Innocent Bajiji, acting head of investment promotion and facilitation at Rwanda Development Board (RDB).

The new service is available free of charge on MTN and TIGO network; it will also be available for Airtel subscribers.

Topics such as taxes, infrastructure, energy, standards, consultation, information, access to finance and agriculture are available on the platform.

The system is expected to reduce transport costs that business operators would have incurred in travelling to Kigali transport fees to share the problems with relevant institutions often in Kigali city.

“People will adopt it (mobile app) if problems are also resolved on time, concerned authorities will need to work fast so as to increase efficiency and attract users,” said Bajiji.

The private sector is now urging district authorities to run awareness campaigns on the importance of the new technology service.