Volume 10, Issue 3, March– 2025 International Journal of Innovative Science and Research Technology

ISSN No:-2456-2165 https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/25mar446

Extended IoT Payment System Model for Rwanda

Stadium Using Smart Cards Case
Study: Pere Stadium
Kabila Hortance Mireille1; Dr. Wilson Musoni (PhD)2
1,2
Masters of Science with Honors in Information Technology at University of Kigali, Rwanda

Publication Date: 2025/03/22

Abstract: The concept of implementing an extended model of an Internet of Things (IoT)-based payment system at Rwanda's
stadiums presents an innovative solution to enhance both the customer experience and operational efficiency. This
technology will eliminate long queues at payment points, allowing customers to bypass ticketing delays and save valuable
time. By utilizing RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) technology, the system enables the simultaneous scanning of
multiple personal e-cards, automatically displaying card details and balances on an LCD screen. This ensures that customers
can easily monitor their payment status, reducing any potential confusion. The primary objective of this research is to design
and implement an IoT-based stadium payment system for "Pere Stadium," located in Nyamirambo Sector, Nyarugenge
District, Rwanda. The proposed system is subscription-based and introduces a new form of digital payment for stadium
services. It integrates an RFID reader, a database, and RFID cards, requiring customers to register with the stadium's
administrator. Registration involves providing essential details, such as names, contact information, and funds to be loaded
onto the card, which can be replenished after use. Upon registration, customers can access the stadium, and their RFID
cards will be scanned at entry points to process payments. If the card's balance is insufficient, entry will be denied until the
customer replenishes their funds with the assistance of stadium agents. The system will automatically update the database
with each transaction, ensuring real-time record keeping.

How to Cite: Kabila Hortance Mireille; Dr. Wilson Musoni (PhD) (2025). Extended IoT Payment System Model for Rwanda
Stadium Using Smart Cards Case Study: Pere Stadium. International Journal of Innovative Science and
Research Technology, 10(3), 668-681. https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/25mar446

I. INTRODUCTION counters and entry points. These inefficiencies can

compromise security, overburden operational resources, and
In Rwanda, traditional ticketing and payment systems negatively impact customer satisfaction.
at stadiums often lead to long queues and inefficiencies. This
research explores the implementation of an IoT-based These challenges are made worse by the lack of
payment system using RFID technology at PERE Stadium in integration between various systems, such as ticketing, access
Nyamirambo, Rwanda, to improve operational efficiency and control, and in-stadium transactions. The reliance on manual
enhance the customer experience. The system aims to ticket verification and cash handling requires significant
streamline ticketing, reduce wait times, and ensure accurate, human intervention, which increases the potential for errors
real-time payments by allowing customers to tap RFID cards and delays. Additionally, the absence of real-time data
at entry points. synchronization makes it difficult for stadium management to
effectively monitor and address operational issues, affecting
The primary goal of this study is to design a modernized both security and overall event management. In Rwanda,
payment solution that addresses the challenges of manual where there is a growing demand for modern, efficient, and
processes and integrates seamlessly into stadium operations. secure event management solutions, there is a pressing need
This paper evaluates the feasibility and effectiveness of such for a more advanced system. The current approaches do not
a system, with potential for broader application in other fully capitalize on the benefits of modern technology to
stadiums across Rwanda. enhance user experience or streamline processes.

II. STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM The key challenge is the need for an integrated Internet
of Things (IoT)-based solution that improves both the
Traditional ticketing and payment systems at stadiums security and operational efficiency of stadiums. By
often result in slow, cumbersome, and error-prone processes. combining RFID technology, real-time data management,
This not only creates a stressful experience for both attendees and automated processes, such a system can address critical
and staff but also leads to long queues and delays at ticket issues like:

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 Extended Wait Times and Queues: Traditional methods content on the World Wide Web or online resources such as
lead to congestion and long waiting periods at entry and discussion forums. With a simple search, thousands or even
transaction points. hundreds of pages related to a specific topic can often be
quickly found.
 Ineffective Payment Processing and Ticket Verification:
Manual systems require extensive human labor and are The process of internet research has greatly influenced
prone to mistakes. the generation of ideas and the creation of knowledge. It is
commonly used for personal research on topics like news
 Lack of Real-Time Data Integration: Disjointed systems events or health issues, academic research by students for
hinder the ability to effectively monitor and manage projects and papers, and by journalists or authors researching
stadium operations. stories.

III. RESEARCH DESIGN AND  Interview

METHODOLOGY Interviews, as a qualitative research technique, involve
conducting in-depth, individual conversations with a small
 Sampling group of respondents to explore their perspectives on a
To accurately represent the target population, the specific idea, program, or situation. This method allows the
sample was selected based on the data that had been interviewer to ask clarifying questions, enabling the
previously collected. Sampling refers to the process of respondent to answer in their own words. Additionally, the
determining how many observations should be included in a interviewer can observe both verbal and nonverbal behaviors,
statistical sample. When it is not feasible to study the entire as well as gain insights from comments made during the
population, a smaller sample is drawn using a random interview. Unlike documentation or observation, interviews
sampling technique (Cohen et al., 2011). can provide valuable, deeper information, making this
technique one of the most reliable for gathering data
Slovin's formula provides researchers with a method to
determine the appropriate sample size needed to achieve  Conceptual Framework
results with a desired level of accuracy. The formula helps A conceptual framework is an analytical tool that can be
estimate the sample size required to ensure that findings are applied in various contexts and fields. It helps in organizing
reliable (Slovin, 1985). ideas and making conceptual distinctions. A well-developed
conceptual framework captures essential concepts in a way
For this study, a sample size of 305 respondents was that is both memorable and practical, providing a clear
chosen from the target population. The population was structure for understanding complex ideas.
divided proportionally into categories, including stadium
guardians, clients, and cleaners. The calculation for the
sample size is as follows:

 Data Collection Methods and Instruments/ Tools

Data collection refers to the process of gathering
information through predefined procedures to address the
research topic at hand. For this study, the researcher used a
combination of research instruments, including a
questionnaire, documentation, interviews, and observations,
to collect primary data.

It is widely recognized that asking individuals questions

is an effective method for obtaining both qualitative and
quantitative information. In this study, data was gathered
primarily through the survey approach (Walliman, 2011).

The specific data collection techniques used in this

research included observation and interviews

 Documentation
Documentation refers to the evidence supporting
information and ideas obtained from external sources,
including both primary and secondary sources.

 Internet Research
Internet research refers to the process of gathering
information from the Internet, especially freely accessible

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Fig 1 Concept Framework

Source: Own Drawing, 2024

IV. PRESENTATION, ANALYSIS AND of the system is provided to visualize the operational flow.
INTERPRETATION OF FINDINGS Mathematical models essential to the system's operation are
also developed, followed by a description of the specific
 Introduction materials used in the construction. The implementation
This chapter presents the results of the development and process is discussed, outlining each step from initial setup to
testing of the IoT-based stadium payment system for Pere final testing. Lastly, an estimation of the project cost is
Stadium. The primary goal of this system is to streamline the provided, detailing the expenses associated with the system's
entry and payment process by using RFID technology development. Each section contributes to evaluating how
integrated with an ESP8266 Node MCU microcontroller. In effectively the designed system meets the objectives,
this chapter, the findings are organized into sections that focusing on enhancing customer experience through efficient
illustrate the system's design, functionality, and and secure stadium entry and payment handling.
implementation outcomes. I begin by describing the system’s
block diagram and circuit diagram, which demonstrate the  System Block diagram
connections and interaction among components. A flowchart

Fig 2 System Block Diagram

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Volume 10, Issue 3, March– 2025 International Journal of Innovative Science and Research Technology
ISSN No:-2456-2165 https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/25mar446
This diagram represents the architecture of an IoT- of installation. Once the tag is scanned, data is sent to the
based stadium entry and payment system using RFID microcontroller (ESP8266 NodeMCU), which processes the
technology, an ESP8266 NodeMCU, and a MySQL database. information and displays the tag owner’s details and balance
The client, or stadium attendee, carries an RFID tag, which is on the connected LCD screen. This setup allows customers to
scanned by the RFID reader upon entry. The RFID reader is view their information in real time.
powered by a 5V battery supply, ensuring portability and ease

Fig 3 Flow of System

The ESP8266 is connected to a Wi-Fi network, RFID module (MRC522). The NodeMCU acts as the central
allowing it to communicate with a remote MySQL database microcontroller, connecting to the RFID reader, LCD screen,
where all transaction and balance details are stored. When a and buzzer. The RFID module is used to scan tags, with its
customer’s payment is processed, their updated information data pins (SCK, CE, SDA, and SDO) connected to the
is saved in the database. A PHP script provides an interface NodeMCU’s GPIO pins for communication. When a valid tag
for the stadium administrator to access and view transaction is scanned, the system displays the user’s information on the
details on a computer, allowing for easy management of OLED LCD screen (OLED12864), allowing customers to
customer accounts and balances. This system streamlines view their balance or status. The buzzer provides an audible
stadium entry by enabling quick, contactless payment alert to indicate successful or failed scans, and the system is
verification and record-keeping for administrators. powered by a 5V battery, making it portable and easy to
deploy at stadium entry points.
 Circuit Diagram
This circuit diagram illustrates an RFID-based payment
system using a NodeMCU, an OLED LCD, a buzzer, and an

Fig 4 System Circuit Diagram

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ISSN No:-2456-2165 https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/25mar446
 Flowchart of System specific individual. Once registration is complete, the system
This flowchart illustrates the process flow for a stadium waits for a customer to scan their RFID tag. If the scanned tag
entry and payment system using RFID technology. The is found in the database (i.e., the customer is registered), the
process starts with initializing the RFID reader, LCD screen, system proceeds to the next steps; otherwise, the user must
and buzzer. Next, customer details are registered in the register before entry.
system, which is necessary for linking each RFID tag to a

Fig 5 System Flow chart

If the tag is recognized and registered, the system real-time data transmission, and user interaction. The key
displays the tag owner’s details on the LCD screen. Then, it steps in the implementation process are outlined below:
checks if there are sufficient funds for entry. If payment is
successful, the transaction details are sent to a database,  Hardware Setup
which stores the payment information and updates the The first step is to properly assemble and connect all the
balance. The system then notifies the customer at the gate hardware components. Below is a breakdown of the hardware
entry, allowing them access. The database also allows an setup:
admin to view payment details, providing a record of
transactions and facilitating monitoring of entry payments. If  NodeMCU (ESP8266): This microcontroller will be
payment is unsuccessful, the system does not allow entry, and responsible for connecting to the Wi-Fi network and
the customer will need to top up their card. interfacing with the RFID module, LCD display, and other
components. It will manage the data transmission to and
 Specific materials from the MySQL database.
The following table provides a detailed list of the
materials and components used in the development of the
IoT-based stadium payment system. Each component has
been chosen for its compatibility, functionality, and
contribution to the overall system design.

 Implementation
The implementation of the IoT-based stadium payment
system involves integrating all the hardware components with
the necessary software to facilitate RFID-based payments,

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Fig 6 Node MCU

RFID Module (MFRC522): This module will be the microcontroller to retrieve the unique identifier (UID)
connected to the NodeMCU and will be used to read the RFID from the tag.
tags presented by users at the stadium. It communicates with

Fig 7 RFID Reader

RFID Tags: Customers will be issued RFID tags (or These tags will be used for stadium access and payment
cards) that store essential details, such as user ID and balance. processing.

Fig 8 RFID Tags

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 CD Display: The LCD display will show the user's details real time based on the data received from the RFID
and balance after scanning the RFID tag. It will update in module.

Fig 9 LCD Screen

 uzzer: The buzzer will emit an audible sound to provide feedback to the user, indicating whether the RFID scan was successful
or if there was an error

Fig 10 Buzzer

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 A 5V battery will be used to power the entire system, ensuring that the system remains operational in the event of a power outage
or when used remotely.

Fig 11 Battery

 Software Setup  Sending data (such as the customer ID and transaction

The software setup involves configuring the NodeMCU amount) to the MySQL database through Wi-Fi.
to read RFID tags, display information on the OLED LCD,  MySQL Database: The MySQL database will store
and transmit data to the MySQL database for transaction customer information, including user ID, balance, and
processing. transaction history. The database will be updated in real-
time each time a transaction occurs (for example, after a
 NodeMCU Programming: The NodeMCU will be stadium entry or payment).
programmed using the Arduino IDE. The key  PHP Web Interface: The PHP-based web interface will
functionalities programmed into the microcontroller are: allow the stadium administrator to view and manage
customer data, monitor transaction success rates, and
 Reading RFID tags using the MFRC522 library. access historical data. The web interface will include the
 Displaying the customer information and balance on the following sections:
OLED LCD using the U8g2 library.

Fig 12 Login Form

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Fig 13 Cashier Home Page

Fig14 Users Registration Form

Fig 15 Users Top-up form

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Fig 16 Transaction History for Cashiers

Fig 17 Cashiers Detail account

 Dashboard: Provides an overview of Admin activities and transaction status.

Fig 18 Admin Dashboard

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 Manage Cashiers: Allows the admin to add, edit, or delete cashier’s records.

Fig 19 Managing Cashiers

Fig 20 Register Cashiers Form

Fig 21 Top-Up Money to Agents (Cashiers)

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Fig 22 Cashier Balance

Fig 23 Stadium Statistics

Fig 24 Payment Records History

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Fig 25 Managing Tickets

Fig 26 Exported Data.

V. CONCLUSION allowing customers to track their payment status and avoid

confusion. This transparency helps enhance the customer’s
The implementation of the Extended Model of Internet confidence in the system and reduces the potential for
of Things-based Rwanda Stadium Payment System has disputes at the entry points.
proven to be an effective solution to address the challenges
faced by stadium-goers, particularly related to long queues The system’s reliance on RFID technology provides a
and manual ticketing processes. By leveraging RFID secure and reliable solution, ensuring that only registered
technology, the system offers a seamless, efficient, and customers with valid RFID cards are permitted entry. This
modern way for customers to pay for their entry into the improves security at the stadium and ensures accountability,
stadium. as all transactions are logged and stored in the central
database.
The introduction of this system has successfully
achieved the goal of enhancing operational efficiency and Overall, the system proves to be a cost-effective
improving user experience at Pere Stadium. The system solution for the stadium, reducing the need for manual
significantly reduces waiting times by enabling quick and ticketing and processing while increasing operational
easy payment processing through RFID cards. Customers efficiency. The system’s implementation has the potential to
simply tap their cards at the entry gate, which is scanned and be scaled to other stadiums and large venues in Rwanda,
validated by the RFID reader, eliminating the need for cash contributing to the modernization of payment processes
handling or manual ticket checks. This process is not only across the country.
faster but also more accurate, ensuring that payments are
processed in real time. RECOMMENDATIONS

One of the notable features of the system is the LCD  Based on the findings of this research, the following
display, which shows the customer’s card details and balance, recommendations are made for the successful

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ISSN No:-2456-2165 https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/25mar446
implementation and future development of the Rwanda [10]. Moroney, L. (2020). Exploring the ESP8266
Stadium Payment System: NodeMCU: A Comprehensive Guide to IoT
 Wider Implementation: The system should be extended to Development. IEEE Internet of Things Magazine.
other major stadiums and venues across Rwanda to help [11]. MUNYAGAJU, A. M. (2022, january 8). new
streamline the payment process and improve customer instrcution for sport activities. Retrieved from
experience in various settings. A nationwide rollout would minisports.: www.minisports.gov.rw
help standardize entry processes, leading to a more [12]. nodemcu Team. (2024). nodemcu connecting things
uniform experience for customers. easy. Retrieved from nodemcu:
 System Enhancement: Further research should be https://www.nodemcu.com/index_en.html
conducted to incorporate mobile payments or integrate [13]. R. Elmasri and S. B. Navathe. (2021). Fundamentals
with existing mobile money platforms in Rwanda. This of Database Systems, . 6th ed. Addison-Wesley.
would allow users to top-up their RFID cards via mobile [14]. R. Want. ( Jan.-Mar. 2019). An introduction to RFID
phones, offering greater flexibility in how users load technology. IEEE Pervasive Computing.
money onto their cards. Mobile payment options could [15]. Ref:Lim, T. S. (october 2019). student attendance.
enhance user accessibility and convenience. [16]. Researcher. (2024). Owner words.
 Continuous Training for Stadium Agents: Staff [17]. Sarah Amsier, Sharon Shea. (2024, may 6). RFID
responsible for managing customer recharges and card (Radio frequency identification). Retrieved from
issuance should undergo continuous training to ensure https://www.techtarget.com/iotagenda/definition/RFI
they are fully proficient in handling the system’s operation D-radio-frequency-identification
and troubleshooting issues. Well-trained staff can [18]. Seung. (2023). meaning of entrance. Retrieved from
improve the user experience by resolving issues quickly https://blog.engram.us/entrence-or-entrance-which-is-
and efficiently. correct/
 Periodic System Updates: Regular updates to the system’s
software and database management will be essential to
ensure that it remains secure, efficient, and up-to-date
with technological advancements. Keeping the system
current will also help in addressing any emerging
vulnerabilities or system bugs.

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