Hope Magazine June 2016 Edition (Issue 65) by Publisher of Hope Magazine

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HIGHLIGHTS “Africa is growing and its investment potential is very huge with capacity of attracting global attention. However, without a banking sector that has both local strength and global reach Africa’s full promise may not be realised.” Vitalo added: “Atlas Mara is reshaping African banking against the backdrop of retreating multi-national banking groups on one hand and a lack of access to capital, liquidity and funding by local and regional banks on the other hand thereby creating an opportunity to make a difference”.

BANK POPULAIRE DU RWANDA

36 BRALIRWA

CONTENTS

COVER RSSB Building for Rwanda’s future

20 MOBISOL provides reliable Solar Power for a quarter million beneficiaries in Africa 22 BRITAM Hope, dignity restored as Britam renovates houses for Bugesera genocide widows 24 BRD bolsters Gicumbi public transport 26 KWETU Filmmakers to attend German Film Academy

RWANDA REVENUE AUTHORITY

28 AIRTEL RWANDA excites customers with the new Unlimi-net bundle 30 BANK conveniently using Urwego’s e-platforms

7 EDITORIAL Time for soft hospitality skills as MICE mounts 11 RSSB Rwanda Social Security Board Building for Rwanda’s future

18 UAP Agriculture Insurance Providing agribusiness insurance cover to stimulate agriculture sector

RUHUNDA EKOCENTER

JUNE 2016 ISSUE 65

Safintra

Hotel Des Mille Collines

Nakumatt Supermarket

8, 9 10

SCIR Limited

UAP Insurance Group

Sonarwa Genral Insurance

Britam Insurance

Engen Airtel Rwanda Konka Products

27 28, 29 31 38, 39, 48, 49

Sulfo Rwanda

36 BRALIRWA Rev. Jesse Jackson visits BRALIRWA commends its good practices

Interhouse Limited

Akagera Business Group

40 VISIONFUND Transforming entrepreneurs’ lives

Elevate Suites

M Peace plaza

Victoria Motors

46 SERENA HOTEL staff joins the fight against the genocide ideology

Paint House

Oriental Papyrus

52 MOTORING Car Servicing and Garages

TIGO Rwanda

44 RUHUNDA EKOCENTER leveraging partnerships to unlock community development potentials

DEVELOPMENT BANK OF RWANDA

Turkish Airlines

Urwego Opportunity Bank

32 BPR Financial inclusion set to deepen as Atlas Mara merges BPR with BRD-Commercial

Ruliba Clays Limited

Popconn Rwanda

14 SCIR Towards offering data analytics software solutions for efficiency in decision making processes 16 RRA pioneering in creating a conducive environment for doing business in Rwanda

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DESIGN & LAYOUT Dani K.

PUBLISHED BY Hope Magazine Ltd.

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Time for soft hospitality

skills as MICE mounts

ecent developments in the country of a thousand hills are an epitome of progress that has been a function of economic architecture that is beginning to blossom into fruition. From the blueprint of Vision 2020, EDPRS 2 and other national and international development aspirations, the leadership of the country has demonstrated visionary actions and commitment to a cause. Boosting tourism has, especially, been given a strong impetus to enable a more enriched experience of high-end visitors and entice them into staying longer and spending more. Different tourism platforms have been rapidly moved up the ladder. One such parameter is the move towards becoming a Meeting, Incentives Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) hub for the East African Community. Tourism as an invisible export has been given a high table position and as has been noted before, MICE is highly supplementing other tourist attractions of nature and leisure. Because business tourists do spend up to three times more than leisure visitors, Rwanda has done good to position herself in that seat where the International Conference and Congress Association (ICCA) projects her to enter Africa’s top 10 MICE destinations by the end of this year. It is no accident that therefore that Rwanda is hosting successive conferences and summits of international repute. The recently concluded World Economic Forum, and now the Africa Union Summit are all reflective of the trust and confidence that have gained momentum over the years from the international community. All that we need to accentuate with all due respect is honing the skills of all key players in the hospitality industry. Having infrastructures without professional and soft skills by managers and frontline soldiers will not work in the industry’s favour. Let the building of capacities in the sector be given priority like we have done with building the hard hospitality infrastructures.

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Rwanda Social Security Board

Building for Rwanda’s future

Grand Pension Plaza located in Kigali's CBD Nyanza Pension Plaza

Grand Pension Plaza A commercial building located in Kigali’s Central Business District. It has 18 floors with retail shops on 3 of them and offices in the remaining floors. The building stands on an area of 9,422 square meters.

This is a 6-storey commercial building located in Rwamagana district in the Eastern Province housing the district office and Equity Bank Rwanda limited.

Karongi Pension Plaza

Nyanza Pension Plaza

This is a 6-storey commercial building located in Karongi Town in the Western Province.

This is a 6-storey commercial building located in Nyanza Town in the Southern Province.

Musanze Pension Plaza

Rwamagana Pension Plaza

This is a 6-storey commercial building located in Musanze town in the Northern Province that

Karongi Pension Plaza

houses the provincial offices and University of Kigali.

Let and managed by Century Real Estate' www.hope-mag.com

Kacyiru Executive appartments

Kacyiru Executive Apartments They consist of 4 block of apartments with totaling to 50 units. Each block has 6 floors. The apartments are located in Kacyiru next to Laico Hotel (Umubano) and are home to 8,737 Diplomats, UN staff and chief executive officers of companies. Furnished apartments

kitchen inside one of the Kacyiru Executive Apartments

Let and managed by Century Real Estate 12 JUNE 2016 ISSUE 65

The elegant RSSB Tower 2 located iin Kigali's CBD

RSSB Properties: Building for Rwanda’s future

challenge.

One cannot go by without noticing the elegant buildings built by the Rwanda Social Security Board (RSSB) across the country. The buildings are now a solution to what has been one of Rwanda’s burdening challenges, inadequate housing, office and commercial space. These are some of the properties by RSSB that not only beautify Rwanda’s skyline but also solve the above mentioned

Is a 14-storey office building located in Ubumwe Cell in Kiyovu, a Kigali city suburb stands on 4,247 square meters of land.

RSSB Tower 2

Crystal Plaza This is a commercial building located in town opposite Chez Venant standing on 2,275 square meters. Crystal Plaza 1.

RSSB's Tower 2 beautifying Kigali's skyline

Let and managed by Century Real Estate www.hope-mag.com

NCR SCIR Towards offering data analytics software solutions for efficiency in decision making processes providers to increase their operational efficiency and channel resources to more productive centers.

Q: Given that NCR/SCIR is an ISO certified

company, what advantages do your clients enjoy from your IT products? A: The ISO certification typically allows external

Q: Could you briefly explain

some of your leading products and services and the niche you are creating in the market?

ffAs Rwanda transits towards an IT-based economy, there is a strong need for steadfast supply of both the hardware and software equipments to facilitate the drive.

he Service and Computer Industries Rwanda (SCIR), an ISO Certified affiliate of the American SCI Group that manages the NCR franchise locally and in the country has sought to augment the local ICT industry through its ICT related services. Hope Magazine talks to Austin Bareme the Country Director SCIR on the company’s soft and hardware solutions to the backend users and service providers. Q: As one of Rwanda and East Africa’s leading

IT company, what would you say puts NCR/SCIR among the market leaders? A: The core of the company’s strength is in

being ahead of the curve as far as process transformation technology is concerned. There is always a continuous drive to bring new products to the market that enhance customer experience and satisfaction in banking, passenger management systems IT networks. This not only benefits end-user customers but also allows service 14 JUNE 2016 ISSUE 65

A: We offer convenient e-banking solutions; both front end hardware such asAutomated Teller Machines (ATMs), financial kiosks and Point of Sale (POS) devices and backend management software that includes real time monitoring, transaction processing, cash management and data analytics. All these are certified as per the global standards against evolving threats affecting data networks through encryption.

We also offer airport management systems that entail supporting airport database management systems, which facilitate the seamless processing of passengers at airport terminals and eliminates clearance delays. We provide flight information display systems that further enhance the overall efficiencies at airport terminals. In addition, we have power solutions, which include the latest in power management solutions including UPS machines, inverters and mobile solar powered panels. These are very important in institutions such as hospitals, military facilities, and radar sites. On the IT infrastructure side, we have a wide product portfolio including, but not limited to, intelligent networks, application databases for trading platforms and exchanges and PABX IP telephone systems. In other words, we are able to set up any given office site fully from existing products with little or no need for delays in customization.

parties, including customers and regulators, to confirm that all our products are up to required quality standards and the operational efficiencies have been independently audited and confirmed as satisfactory. This allows our clients to have a level of comfort in pre-sales and after-sale support enabling them concentrate on their core business competencies. Q: Most IT firms do not offer after-sale services

support and even if they did, it’s not up to required standard, how important is offering the best after sales support to your customers? A: It is presently not feasible in any sector of

business not to offer after-sales-support as this is more important than actual sales, which are short term. The key is building relationships of trust with customers and them having the confidence in the company’s capability to resolve any issues they may face. An extension to after-sale support is actually offering outsource services which takes the entire burden of managing infrastructure away from clients and guaranteeing them full time availability without the attendant overheads they would incur if it was an in-house operation. Q: Lastly, what new products and services should

your clients expect in the short-term? A: The long term goal of the company is to offer

data analytics software solutions which is critical in the decision making processes of our clients and complements our front-end products to the benefit of the client. Based on such analyses, we are seeking to bring to the market products relevant to the context of the Rwandan market and a typical example would be self service kiosks at service centers given the increasing number of conferences and related increase in conference delegates/tourists they come with.

RRA pioneering in creating A CONDUCIVE ENVIRONMENT for doing business in Rwanda ff Creating a good investment climate for both domestic and foreign investors is one of the fundamental factors for achieving sustainable development. Rwanda Revenue Authority (RRA) is working very hard by the minute in ensuring that Rwanda becomes a home for investors by putting in place strategies that enable investors to easily establish their businesses in the country and pay taxes in a friendly environment.

Official opening of Rusumo OSBP

ince RRA’s establishment in 1998, the institution has embarked on rigorous tax reforms especially by providing favourable tax laws and embracing Information Technologies (ITs) in tax declarations and payments. Notably, the automation of taxation processes has resulted into a reduction in the cost of doing business, paying taxes and increased tax compliance.

Incentives for exporters:

The Single Customs Territory:

If a taxpayer exports commodities or services that bring to the country between US$ 3 million and US$ 5 million in a tax period, he or she is entitled to a tax discount of three percent (3%).

The implementation of the Single Customs Territory (SCT) in the East African Community (EAC), whereby goods entering the EAC are cleared at the first port of entry (Mombasa in Kenya) along the Northern Corridor and (Dares salaam in Tanzania) along the Central Corridor, is another trade facility that enables faster payment of taxes and duties in Rwanda, allowing goods to be immediately released without any other delays on their way.

Tax incentives by the Government of Rwanda

If he or she exports commodities or services that bring to the country more than US$ 5 million in a tax period, he or she is entitled to a tax discount of five percent (5%). Goods imported from EAC member countries: Goods that fulfill the rules of origin criteria are not subjected to customs duties.

In order to invest in Rwanda, RRA has a number of investment incentives that enˀsure investors to have their businesses thrive in Rwanda.

This has increased investment and business growth in Rwanda.

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As testimony to this, a truck travelling from Mombasa to Kigali that used to spend between 18-21 days now spends only 6 days to reach Kigali, which is a tremendous improvement and a trade

facility that has made trade across the region more affordable and enjoyable.

Rwanda Revenue Authority Simplifying Tax Payers’ Lives with E-Payments Platforms RRA has made a lot of inroads in the use of Information Communication Technologies (ICTs) to ease the collection of both fiscal and non-fiscal revenue on behalf of the government over the years. Today, there are a number of online and offline softwares and technologies aimed at easing every tax payer’s life in and out of the country. Electronic Billing Machines (EBMs): To start with, RRA introduced the use of Electronic Billing Machines (EBMs) in 2012 to facilitate businesses

pay for their Value Added Tax (VAT), increase taxpayer compliance while reducing the tax collection cost that has always been a factor in developing economies.

one stop customs inspections or One Stop Border Posts (OSBPs) as they are known today is a phenomenon that has significantly improved trade in Rwanda.

E-filing and e-payment: Here, taxpayers file their tax returns using their office computers or even laptops regardless of whether he/she is in Rwanda or outside on other business trips. In addition, Micro Taxpayers can file and pay their tax returns using their mobile phones under the new technology called M-declaration whereby they are only required to press*800# on their mobile phones and follow instructions.

To start with, an OSBP is a border facility that combines two stops for national border control processing into one and consolidates border control functions in a shared space for exiting one country and entering another, thus reducing travel time for passengers and freight vehicles.

The One Stop Border Posts (OSBPs) promoting cross border trade Improving cross-border procedures through

OSBPs have significantly reduced border crossing time for trucks/trailers from 2-3days to very few hours. To sum it all up, RRA is there for you to facilitate you to pay your taxes and make you proud for being a part of your countries’ development.

Rusumo Border

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UAP Agriculture Insurance Providing agribusiness insurance cover to stimulate agriculture sector R wa n d a n fa r m e r t o commendably manage t h e m a ny r i s k s a n d uncertainties involved in agriculture. “The cover brings with it the added va l u e of i n c re a s i n g market-oriented agriculture by making revenue from the sector p re d i c t a b le, Ka b a no says. At the same time it provides means for countering the risks that have in the past made agriculture lending almost impossible in Rwanda, he adds.

Richard Kabano, UAP's Business development officer explains to farmers at the expo how the agriculture insurance works

The long ill-conceived issue of regarding agriculture as a risky venture is no longer holds, thanks to UAP’s agriculture insurance solutions launched onto the Rwandan market, an innovation that has got more Rwandan farmers access insurance for their crops.

part from building confidence among farmers, the cover is bound to have a potential of enabling financial institutions allow farmers access agricultural loans. “We have pioneered index-based and multiperil agriculture insurance covers to insure both crops and livestock,” says Kabano Richard, Business Development Officer at UAP, in an interview with Hope Magazine.

Armed with Crop Insurance Policy, a farmer will now be as eligible for an investment loan as any other businessperson can be. With UAP Crop Insurance covers, farmers are assured of having their produce protected against crop losses caused by hailstorm, fire, drought, and excessive rainfall, frost damage, flooding, lightening and any other catastrophe disease. The crop insurance puts

the insured farmer in a better position to access agriculture credit/bank loans. The farmer is assured of compensation against economic effects of bad seasons/poor yields. Initially the Ministry of agriculture in partnerships with insurance companies and agriculture promotion organizations offered other crop insurance products; however, there has never been any that covers a large spectrum of crops and perils like the UAP product. Kabano notes that the covers are adjusted and suited to the needs of every customer. There is a single fixer for any insurance or for that matter financial need of every farmer but rather UAP is tailoring the same principles to suit special needs of individual customers.

Livestock insurance Besides Crop Insurance, UAP Rwanda concurrently launched a similar coverage for livestock dubbed Livestock Insurance. All the Agriculture solutions were released under a campaign codenamed “Tunga Utuze” loosely translated as earn with confidence and comfort. For all kinds of livestock, the Livestock insurance is a cover against losses due to accidental death, diseases of terminal nature, emergency slaughter on advice of a recognized veterinary surgeon and theft of livestock in raising units or paddocks. “We cover transit dairy and beef cattle, poultry, pigs, sheep and goats with a target to ensure that farmers are better positioned to invest more in livestock production projects since their investments are secured from common perils.

Crop Insurance UAP is proud to be the first to initiate this kind of cover that is offered privately and made available for subscription from individual farmers. The multiPeril Crop Insurance cover is meant for all commercial field crops including wheat, maize, barley, rice, tea, coffee, sugar cane, tobacco, all horticultural a nd f lo r i c u lt u re c ro ps a nd tree crops.Among many other benefits, the cover allows a 18 JUNE 2016 ISSUE 65

Chicken also require to be insured to avoid loss by farmers

Others include diseases of terminal nature certified by a veterinary doctor, theft of stock in paddocks, premises housing the insured livestock, calving complications and animal shows or exhibitions” Kabano explains. With the policy, insured farmers have greater access to Livestock improvement loans considering that as long as a stock policy document is presented, financing institutions will accept it as an alternative form of security.

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Mobisol provides reliable Solar Power for a quarter

million beneficiaries in Africa ffLeading German off-grid solar provider installs 50,000 smart solar home and business systems in East Africa. Mobisol, the leading provider of smart rent-to-own solar solutions in East Africa, has installed 50,000 solar systems for rural homes and businesses, thus reaching out to over 250,000 beneficiaries.

he Berlin-based company’s solar systems are powerful enough to cover the entire electricity needs of average African households. The solar systems are paid off over three years in small instalments and are thus also affordable for low-income customers. Mobisol systems are designed specifically for the African market and come with extended warranty and comprehensive customer service - including remote maintenance via the well-developed East African mobile network. Having installed over 5MW of solar capacity, M o b i s o l c u r re n t ly co m p e n s a t e s fo r approximately 25,000t of CO2 per year by replacing fossil energy sources. Reliable solar power raises the living standards of rural families who do not have access to the electrical grid. Using Mobisol solar energy 150,000 children can now do their homework at night without inhaling the noxious fumes of kerosene lamps. In addition, many Mobisol customers use their solar system commercially: Approximately 15,000 small businesses generate an additional household income of over 5 million Euros per year with their Mobisol system. Mobisol also creates new green jobs and training opportunities in the typically precarious labour markets of East Africa. The "Mobisol Akademie" provides a comprehensive education for the company’s employees and so far, over 800 jobs have been created. Mobisol’s founder and CEO Thomas Gottschalk explains: “When we commercially launched our products three years ago, our main vision was to mitigate climate change.

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Fifty thousand installed solar systems later, I am even more thrilled to see our customers’ happiness when they turn on their lights, TV and fridge for the first time, or start up a small energy-based business. Access to clean, affordable and reliable energy literally empowers entire nations to live up to their potential – improving economic well-being and uplifting communities’ quality of life.” Thomas Duveau, head of business development, adds: “High-quality large off-grid solar systems for households and small businesses can substitute the grid. Stand-alone solar systems that cover 100% of the electricity needs of customers are the future of energy provision for emerging nations – they are logistically easy to implement, cheaper and more reliable than the grid. Today, Mobisol is already a major driver of rural development in East Africa. We are currently expanding our efficient appliances and products portfolio while expanding to Kenya and further new markets in Africa and Asia.”

About Mobisol Mobisol’s vision is to provide clean, affordable and reliable electricity to millions of rural households in emerging nations – stimulating economic and social development while simultaneously contributing to global environmental protection.

Mobisol solar systems are available in three different sizes ranging from 80 to 200 Watt. The systems are capable to illuminate entire households with efficient LED bulbs as well as power radios, large flat-screen TVs, charge mobile phones and run consumer appliances such as a laptop, a DC fridge, a sound system, or power smaller businesses such as barbershops, phone charging stations, small restaurants or village cinemas. The product service offer comes with a microfinance option and comprehensive customer service including extended warranty and a free customer hotline, customer education, remote smart monitoring of each system, free installation and three year free maintenance. The company’s work and impact has been honoured by a number of prestigious recognitions, such as a “Momentum for Change” Award by the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, the PV Magazine Award for “Top Business Model 2015”, the “Off-Grid Expert” Award and the Ecosummit Award. Mobisol’s work was elected by SUSTAINIA as one of the TOP10 sustainable solutions in the world and Mobisol’s CEO has been named as “Social Innovator of the Year 2015” by the Technology Review.

“ T h e l a d i e s c a n n o w s le e p i n comfortable houses that are safe from break-ins and durable. We are definitely looking at renovating more houses as the government leadership will advise us,” he noted. There are 122 families staying in Rwangara, 76 of whom are genocide widows living with their families. One of the widows, Julian Nyirababeruka, told journalists how thieves could steal everything from her house including food, water in jerry cans and chairs simply by pushing the doors down. “I am happy that I am going to be staying in a house that is well-locked and safe. The tranquility given by the glass windows and metal doors will enable me to live a comfortable and healthy life,” she said.

Ms Nyirababeruka with Britam CEO, Reuben Kibiru after pledging to support her treatment

Hope, dignity restored as

Britam renovates houses

Mr. Kibiru said the project cost about Rwf 10 million and that they would proceed to spend the same amount on the renovation of five more houses for widows in the area. “We need to appreciate the bigger value of improving the lives of our elderly parents,” he noted. He also pledged medical support for Ms Edith Barakagwira, one of the widows who had an untreated wound on her left palm.

for Bugesera genocide widows Regional insurance services giant, Britam Holdings’ Rwanda subsidiary, Britam Rwanda on Friday handed over houses it renovated for widows of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

he houses, which were five in number, were in bad shape prior to the renovation with wooden doors and windows that thieves would easily break and plunder widows’ belongings. As narrated by the widows during the handover ceremony that took place in Rwangara Parish, Ntarama Sector in Bugesera District, on top of the theft problem they faced, they lived in constant fear that the houses would collapse anytime given that they were built more than 20 years ago, immediately after the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi. “You can imagine the state of a mud-house that was built in 1997. This is why we felt that as part of our Corporate Social Responsibility we need to engage in sustainable projects such as these.

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About Britam Holdings Limited

Reuben Kibiru Britam CEO, addressing beneficiaries at Ntarama Sector

Handing the widows money or food items wouldn’t have been enough,” Reuben Kibiru, the Britam Insurance Rwanda Chief Executive Officer told reporters shortly after touring the renovated houses with his staff.

Britam Holdings Limited, previously known by as British-American Investments Company, is a diversified financial services group and is listed on the Nairobi Securities Exchange. The group offers a wide range of financial products and services in insurance, asset management, property, and banking in the African Great Lakes region. Britam’s headquarters are in Nairobi, Kenya, with subsidiaries in Kenya, Uganda, South Sudan, Rwanda, Tanzania, Malawi, and Mozambique. The flagship company of the group is the British-American Insurance Company (Kenya) Limited, commonly referred to by its brand name Britam Kenya.

BRD bolsters Gicumbi public transport

BRD CEO, MR. Alex KANYANKOLE, RTFC president:(RTD)col Dodo Twahirwa, Jules Aimable Muhizi vice mayor Economic affairs Gicumbi district and other officials cut ribbon at the official inauguration RTFCU taxi park

ffTravelers to and from Gicumbi district, Northern Province, will now have an improved and enriched experience as a better system of handling commuter vehicles and passengers including a decent waiting shed and ticket booking office have been put in place; thanks to the Development Bank of Rwanda (BRD) that instated a new Rwf923 million taxi park, launched on Friday 24th June 2016.

he facility that has been initiated by the Rwanda Federation of Transport Cooperatives (RFTC) in cooperation with Gicumbi district was financed by Development Bank of Rwanda (BRD). The taxi park will accommodate vehicles predominantly ply the Gicumbi-Kigali, and Gicumbi Nyagatare routes, according to RFTC officials. The facility has 43 shops on its margins for let, public toilets, office space, a conference hall and a vehicle service station. “The new project is going to be very vital to the district and residents since it will make travelling preparation easier and more organized,” noted Col. (RTD) Dodo Twahirwa, president of RFTC, during the opening ceremony, adding that the facility will create employment opportunities for the community and improve the co-operative’s revenue. He commended BRD for the support, and said; “We appreciate BRD’s funding that has made this project a reality. With the facility, our transport business in the district will be rationalized and more efficient. Travelers can comfortably rest as they wait for buses, and

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transporters have a modern facility that will ensure vehicle safety.” During the launch, Dodo informed members present that BRD financed the facility with a loan worth Rfw600 million while the land was provided by the district. He also noted with pleasure that BRD has funded all their taxi parks. Express buses, including Stella Express, Volcano Express, among others, are some of the passenger transport firms that operate from Gicumbi Taxi Park. He further noted that RFTC plans to construct another new taxi park in Muhanga, Southern Province. Alex Kanyankole, the BRD chief executive officer, said the bank is committed to supporting investors with projects that improve people’s lives and service delivery, particularly infrastructure development. “In the future, the bank will give more Rwf350 million to Gicumbi district business community in the sectors of agriculture, transport and export-related projects in order to help spur the country’s growth. “We invited the private sector to come in and take this opportunity,” he said. Kanyankole called for maximum cooperation,

noting that if RFTC had not worked hand in hand with the district authority, there would be no positive results that define the park project. Jules Aimable Muhizi, the Gicumbi vice-mayor for economic affairs who also graced the event as the Guest of Honor, said the facility will help address some of the challenges stakeholders were facing previously and thanked RFTC for initiating such a project that will help find solution to transport problems in Gicumbi. “The government does not do everything but through its good leadership, it puts up policies that enable the public to contribute to national development,” he said. He further praised H.E the President of Republic of Rwanda, Paul Kagame for his endless efforts in sensitizing the community to positively respond and participate in the implementation of government policies. Muhizi lauded BRD for its tremendous role in the socioeconomic development of the country. “The new park has come in handy when Rwanda is in for maximizing trade participation in the East African region,” he said.

BRD, FSA combine

Big deal done. Alex KANYANKOLE, BRD CEO and Ahmadou Abdouaye Diallo Director General FSA Shake hands after the MOU signing

ff Rwf500 million has been allocated to provide guarantee for commercial building projects, Rwf370 million for micro hydropower plants, while Rwf345 million is for developers of a modern market complex, and Rwf291 million for a nursery and primary school venture.

his was announced after a deal that was struck between the Development Bank of Rwanda (BRD) and African Solidarity Fund (FSA), a multi-lateral guarantee institution that facilitates investment projects that support economic development among its member states, as well as those that create more jobs and help reduce poverty. The Rwf1.5 billion guarantee facility with the African Solidarity Fund, signed under a memorandum of understanding on 23rd June 2016, is in line with FSA’s aim of participating in the economic development and support development projects in different sectors of the economy in a bid to fight poverty.

efforts to fight poverty Specifically, the commitment under this agreement is to leverage on FSA’s support to the development of the private sector through provision of financial security, provide guarantee facilities and extension of loans for a longer period of time, so as to allow viable projects access financing. The event graced by the Chief Executive Officer of BRD, Mr. Alex Kanyankole, and the Director General of FSA Mr. Ahmadou Abdouaye Diallo, also attended by BRD clients saw signing of the first agreement regarding the guarantee facility and the extension of loan repayment period. According to the BRD CEO, the facility will be used to support small-and-medium enterprises (SMEs) with medium to long-term projects in the real estate, energy, and education sectors. “SME’s will now have easy access to financing since FSA is here to provide guarantees as we provide the money,” he says. “The rationale of signing this agreement is to establish a fund to support the development of Rwanda’s private sector through provision of financial security,” says Mr. AhmadouAbdouaye Diallo, Director General of FSA. He adds that this will reduce risk and enable investors acquire loans they need to develop their projects and create more jobs for Rwandans. The extension of loan repayment period set in the agreement is to allow identified projects access financing which

will enable SME’s boost businesses. One of the beneficiaries, Abdul Gahima, the founder of Good Harvest School,says the guarantee has come at a right time and he believes this will enable him access finance to put up modern infrastructures at the school. ”The extension of repayment period will ease pressure on borrowers.” Diallo calls upon Rwandans to take advantage of FSA financial solutions by using its guarantee to access investment loans. “We have supported over six projects in areas such as energy, education and health and we still pledge to aid twelve others in the next five years or so to boost agriculture and tourism among other priority areas,” he says. “The Rwanda economy has benefited from the fund, I am ready to continuously create awareness so that Rwandans can understand our services better,” he promises. Renown under its French acronym, FSA, Fonds de SolidariteAfricain has 13 African member states including Rwanda, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Central Frica, Ivory Coast, Gabon, Mali, Mauritius, Senegal, Chad,Togo and Niger. It has its Head Quarters in Niger/Niamey. FSA was established in December 21st19796 with the mission of facilitating the economic development of its member states, acting as a catalyst for financial system to allow the public and private sectors access credit for finance productive investment projects. www.hope-mag.com

Kwetu Filmmakers to

attend German Film Academy ff Young Kwetu filmmakers are set to travel to Germany to attend an international filmmakers’ class at the Filmakademie Baden-Württemberg Academy.

he Filmakademie Baden-Württemberg, which was founded in 1991, is regarded as one of the leading International Film and Media schools in the world. The institute focuses on training students to “Learn by doing”, which makes studying at The Filmakademie a unique experience.This follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding, (MoU) between the Rwanda Film Institute and Rwanda Media Project (RMP) on the one hand and representatives of the Filmakademie BadenWürttemberg Film Academy on the other hand at the Kwetu Film Institute last month. Before the signing ceremony, about ten short films produced by young Rwandan filmmakers were screened, and it is from this pool that the two lucky filmmakers will be selected. Speaking at the ceremony, Guido Lukoschek, the coordinator of International Relations at the Filmakademie Baden –Württemberg Film Academy, revealed that Rwanda was the second African country to benefit from the collaboration, the other being South Africa. “A couple of years ago one of our Alumni came to Rwanda to work with the Kwetu Film Institute and we kept contact and he was updating us on developments here, so we thought it might be a good idea to add Rwanda onto our map of international relations because

we find the media scene here very, very interesting and we believe that in coming years there’s a lot to come because of the potential exhibited,” he explained, adding that the country has a huge potential for narration and story-telling. “We are seeking to help young artists to find their voice and define their artistic character and develop it. We think this is a great opportunity not only to teach Rwandan students in Germany but also to bring our own students down here.” Enoch Ssemuwemba, the school manager at Kwetu Film Institute, described the MoU as “a great leap in the right direction”. "There is fantastic support being generated for the creative industry in Rwanda. It is simply the greatest thing to help build a nation's narrative by creating an atmosphere in which cultural expression can thrive. This is arguably the most important sector in our economy as people are handed the tools and resources to explore our country's vast and rich cultural history and, in shaping its future, to express ourselves while appropriately valuing our hearts, our hills and our homes. Indeed, it is often said that people are our greatest asset and that we should sufficiently invest in them first,” said René Nkurunziza in his speech at the signing of the MoU. René Nkurunziza, Marketing Manager at the Kwetu Film Institute

Some of the Kwetu Film Makers pose with representatives from the German film institute after the MoU signing last month

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Guido Lukoschek, the coordinator of International Relations at the Filmakademie Baden –Württemberg Film Academy signs part of the MoU

noted that the MoU will facilitate the sending of Rwandan students to Germany to complement their studies in film at one of the greatest film schools of Europe and equally enabling the hosting of German students in Rwanda at the Kwetu Film Institute. “I believe these are the first steps of a renewed intercultural dialogue and exchange in a field that has only begun to shape the way we communicate and celebrate art and culture in the 21st century,” he closed.

About Kwetu Film Institute Kwetu Film Institute provides training in the creative and technical fields of the audiovisual industry. We offer courses in the history of film, production, directing, scriptwriting, marketing, design setting, post production, camera-usage, editing, sound and lighting. The training is handson meaning that students learn by doing. We have professional teachers in the audiovisual field as well as mentors - often renowned filmmakers -from all over the world who come and offer specific training and up-to date equipment. The classes run every three months from January to December every year. Cost of the 3 month Short Course at Kwetu Film Institute: Enrollment is Rwf 300,000 plus a Registration Fee of Rwf 20,000 only. The payment for enrollment can be spread over three installments. Our program is accredited by the Ministry of Education and Workforce Development Authority. KFI equally offers, together with its partners, the Rwanda Media Project, two years professional Media Designer training at Rwf 1.4 Million (Rwf 700,000 per year) With a two month internship abroad (Germany) included.

local and international news and events. Airtel UnlimiNET is designed to enable Airtel customers remain connected to their social and professional networks all day without worrying about data running out” Unlimi-Net offers data and unlimited whatsapp for as low as 30 RWF, while the weekly plan offer is at 150 RWF and a monthly plan at 500 RWF It will enable Airtel pre-paid customers on a daily plan to enjoy 3 mb data and unlimited messaging on WhatsApp. Additionally, customers on a weekly plan will enjoy 10 mb data/day for facebook and twitter and unlimited messaging on WhatsApp. Furthermore subscribers on monthly will get 15mb data/day for facebook and twitter and unlimited messaging on WhatsApp.

" Customers can subscribe to the Unlimi-Net bundles by simple dialing *222# or *222*30#

Airtel Rwanda excites customers with the new

Unlimi-netbundle

n line with its commitment to deliver value to customers by offering convenient plans and affordable tariffs, Airtel Rwanda, has launched a product tagged Unlimi-Net, which addresses the communication needs of customers under one plan. Unlimi-Net product, which is the first of its kind in Rwanda for Airtel subscribers, is a data and social bundle that

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offers customers access to chat on Facebook and Twitter at an affordable cost and unlimited WhatsApp. Speaking at the launch, Indrajeet Singh Commercial director said “Internet is an essential part of our everyday life. As a user, one wants constant and affordable supply of internet so as to remain connected to loved ones, study and work efficiently and get updated with

for daily plan, *222*150# for Weekly plan and *222*500# for monthly plan" Indrajeet Singh also added that “The Unlimi-Net bundle plans are based on emerging consumer insights and trends that show a substantial increase of data usage for both social and business needs and are aimed at promoting cost efficiency for data services growth on the network and redefine customers’ conversations depending on their varying needs” Customers can subscribe to the Unlimi-Net bundles by simple dialing *222# or *222*30# for daily plan, *222*150# for Weekly plan and *222*500# for monthly plan.

Airtel Rwanda introduces

500% bonus airtime promo ffKigali, Rwanda. June, 2016 – Airtel Rwanda has introduced unprecedented bonus offer that will give all its prepaid customers instant 500 per cent bonus airtime on all top-ups or recharges made through their Airtel Money platform. For instance if a subscriber buys airtime worth 1000RWF using Airtel money platform, he or she will be rewarded with 5000RWF bonus Airtime.

nnouncing the offer, Airtel Commercial Director Indrajeet Singh said, “We are thrilled to launch this exceptional offer for all subscribers on our network, At Airtel, we are obsessed with providing unmatched product and service offerings to delight our customers - providing them with truly differentiated offerings to meet their every telecom and lifestyle needs”. Before the 500% bonus offer, Airtel subscribers enjoyed 100% Airtime bonus each time they topped up their account using Airtel Money platform. The bonus airtime offer can only be utilized for Airtel to Airtel calls and the bonus validity expires the following day midnight. Undoubtedly the most rewarding offer in the telecom industry, the 500 per cent bonus promo is also a way of thanking Airtel Subscribers for using our network, emphasized Commercial Director Indrajeet Singh “500 per cent bonus is yet another testimony to the commitment of the company to empower, delight and excite its esteemed customers with innovative and exclusive offerings” added Indrajeet Singh.

About Bharti Airtel Bharti Airtel Limited is a leading global telecommunications company with operations in 20 countries across Asia and Africa. Headquartered in New Delhi, India, the company ranks amongst the top 3 mobile service providers globally in terms of subscribers.

In India, the company’s product offerings include 2G, 3G and 4G wireless services, mobile commerce, fixed line services, high speed DSL broadband, IPTV, DTH, enterprise services including national & international long distance services to carriers.

In the rest of the geographies, it offers 2G, 3G and 4G wireless services and mobile commerce. Bharti Airtel had over 361 million customers across its operations at the end of May 2016. To know more please visit,

www.airtel.com

www.hope-mag.com

Bank conveniently using

Urwego’s e-platforms ff Banking with Urwego Opportunity Bank has never been easier thanks to the versatile electronic platforms adopted by the bank to ensure people transact conveniently.

hrough its Smart Cash, Visa and China Union Pay enabled Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) located across the country, mHose mVisa mobile banking solution and Tigo Sugira, Urwego provides convenient avenues for Rwandans to access different financial services.

mHose mVisa Mobile Banking Solution mHose mVISA is a mobile banking solution which allows customers and agents to transact with those of other banks participating in mVisa. It is used to send and receive money, do withdrawals and deposits at the agents’ premises, access and service loans, buy airtime, pay bills and account viewing at no cost.

Tigo Sugira In similar efforts to harness the power of mobile technology, Urwego signed a partnership with Tigo Rwanda last year giving birth to the first mobile phone-based by bankmanaged savings account, Tigo Sugira. With Tigo Sugira just like mHose, the benefits a customer enjoys are unimaginable as they have unprecedented convenience of their money at the bank being available to mobile wallet too.

to grow their savings. We believe that the Tigo Sugira product aligns perfectly with our mission by enabling our clients to have access to a secure and convenient savings product to all Tigo Cash users any time throughout Rwanda. This is also the beginning of the partnership in bringing convenience and value to all Rwandans on this foundation. More exciting and innovative solutions will be introduced in future.” said Tineyi Mawocha, the Urwego Chief Executive Officer during the product’s launch last year.

"Urwego partnership with Tigo reaffirms the commitment we have to our clients. We bring secure, convenient and affordable financial services not just to those who have traditionally been excluded from the formal financial sector, but to everyone who wants

Tigo Sugira allows Tigo Cash customers to save at an interest rate of seven per cent. The interest is calculated daily and paid on a quarterly basis. Its main aim is to reach people who have been previously excluded from the formal financial sector.

"Most adults living in urban areas around the world have come in contact with an automated teller machine (ATM). For many, it represents their “bank” far more than rows of tellers standing behind tall counters. This is why Urwego Opportunity Bank’s ATM services are growing by the day in Rwanda as the machines now accept international cards such as Visa cards and China Union Pay." 30 JUNE 2016 ISSUE 65

In order to use the platform, Tigo Cash clients transfer funds from their Tigo Cash accounts to their Urwego-based savings accounts and vice-versa, using their phones. Similarly, Tigo customers can sign up and open an account (for free and within minutes) directly from their mobile devices by dialing *200*11# and selecting Tigo Sugira. All they need is a Tigo Cash account. Customers can then instantly deposit and withdraw money from their savings account through Tigo Cash.

Urwego ATMs Most adults living in urban areas around the world have come in contact with an automated teller machine (ATM). For many, it represents their “bank” far more than rows of tellers standing behind tall counters. This is why Urwego Opportunity Bank’s ATM services are growing by the day in Rwanda as the machines now accept international cards such as Visa cards and China Union Pay. The cards allow ATM card users of other banks to cash out at Urwego ATMs located across the country. Convenience is a major ATM benefit. You avoid long teller lines in banks and can use the ATM to withdraw cash and check account balances. You can find an ATM quickly if you need cash when cheques won’t do. Urwego’s 16 ATMs can be found at the Kigali City Center Urwego branch, Umuyenzi Head Office, Kimironko, Rwamagana, Ngoma, Nyamata, Huye, Muhanga, Musanze, Karongi, Rubavu, Nyabugogo, Kigali City Market and Kicukiro.

About Urwego Opportunity Bank

financing programs to our clients.

At Urwego Opportunity Bank, the bank for all, we support commercial activitiesincrease working capital, business growth and profitability with flexible terms of repayment based on your business’ cashflow.

Our loan products include; Community Banking Loans, New Solidarity Group Loans, Micro Business Loans, Salary Lo a n s, M ot o rc yc le Lo a n s, S p e c i a lt y Loans, Micro Leasing, Agricultural Loans, Shelter Financing, Individual School Fee Loans, College Tuition Loans and School Improvement Loans.

We provide an effective value-for-money

Our savings products on the other hand include the Group Savings Account, Gwiza Savings Account, Deposit Contract Account, Ikaze Account and Children’s Savings Account. These products add on to our exciting range of products and services. Please contact us on our toll free number 5151 if you need any further information or visit our nearest branch.

Contact us on our toll free number 5151 if you need any further information or visit our nearest branch. www.hope-mag.com

Financial inclusion set to deepen as Atlas Mara merges BPR with BRD-Commercial President Paul Kagame adressing participants at the launch of BPR Atlasmara

In summary Rwanda’s heritage banking brand Bank Populaire Du Rwanda (BPR)-is now the second largest bank by asset base after

the merger of BPR with commercial arm of Rwanda Development Bank(BRD-C) by new entrant Atlas Mara. BPR is most likely headed on a collision course against market leader Bank of Kigali (BK) for customers and market

share after edging out I&M Bank Rwanda to third slot. Key stakeholders are terming Atlas Mara’s well orchestrated strategy of elevating new BPR to be part of its regional

banking platform in East Africa as “a game changer” in the local market. Atlas Mara has head-hunted Mr.Sanjeev Annand- a seasoned turn- around artist in the market and former CEO of I&M

Bank Rwanda to lead re-created BPR.

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ompetition in Rwanda’s commercial banking sector is expected to heighten after the recent repositioning and elevation of Rwanda’s heritage banking brandBPR ( better known by its French acronym- Bank Populaire Du Rwanda) by its new owners. The newly branded BPR is majority owned by the Pan African financial services firm Atlas Mara that is promising to shake up the entire African banking sector. A new wave of competition in the market is likely to be triggered off once a revitalized BPR rolls out its new strategies in the market based on its elevated status and new found financial muscle by Atlas Mara. Rwanda’s banking sector is composed of twelve commercial banks, three microfinance banks, one development bank and one cooperative bank,according to sector regulator The National Bank of Rwanda.

However, without a banking sector that has both local strength and global reach Africa’s full promise may not be realised.” Vitalo added: “Atlas Mara is reshaping African banking against the backdrop of retreating multi-national banking groups on one hand and a lack of access to capital, liquidity and funding by local and regional banks on the other hand thereby creating an opportunity to make a difference”. It all started in 2013 when Atlara Mara was created by Bob Diamond former Barclays Plc CEO and Founder of Atlas Merchant Capital LLC who teamed up with Ashish Thakkar Founder of Dubai based Mara Group Holdings Ltd.

BK’s listing was part of a larger privatization program that fell in sync with government’s ambition of modernising and liberalizing the local banking sector. In the wake of liberalization that kicked off in 2005, Rwanda’s banking sector attracted new entrants mostly Kenyan brands such as Equity Bank, KCB, Fina Bank now rebranded as GT Bank and later on I&M Bank that came in loaded with deep pockets and professional expertise. The new entrants disrupted the market prompting local brands such as BK, BPR and Bank Commercial Du Rwanda (BCR) to realign their service offerings. In a bid to respond to the new dynamics,

Analysts are saying that with solid backing from Atlas Mara the new BPR is headed on a collision course with Bank of Kigali (BK) for customers and market share especially after edging out I&M Bank Rwanda as second largest bank in terms of asset base following BPR’s merger with the commercial arm of Rwanda Development Bank (BRD-C). With less than 4 years to Rwanda’s final countdown otherwise known as the Vision 2020, the re-positioning of BPR is setting the stage for a new round of realignments in the local banking sector with far reaching repercussions that will shake up services and heighten competition. The stage for the fight for leadership of Rwanda’s commercial banking sector seems to have kicked off mid last month after Atlas Mara elevated the new BPR outfit to be its leading commercial banking platform for the East African region. Atlas Mara unveiled its East African strategy as part of the deliberations of the World Economic Forum (WEF) that was held in Kigali recently. It did not escape the minds of analysts that the unveiling of the new BPR brand represents a new realignment that goes far beyond the boundaries of the local market. BPR is now taking the mantle of a Rwandan home grown brand being hoisted into the regional banking system as part of a larger but well orchestrated commercial strategy by Atlas Mara. John Vitalo the CEO of Atlas Mara told the Kigali WEF participants that his institution is focusing on reshaping Africa’s banking sector. “Africa is growing and its investment potential is very huge with capacity of attracting global attention.

Ashish J. Thakkar, Mara Group Founder, addresses the crowd at the BPR Atlas Mara Brand Reveal

Atlas Mara completed in the same year its ground breaking Initial Public Offer(IPO) and raised a heavy war chest of US$325 million in equities and debt of approximately US$900 million thereby creating a unique banking operation that was bound to shake up the entire African commercial banking landscape. A year later Atlas Mara acquired the commercial arm of Rwanda Development Bank (BRD-C). To best illustrate its appetite and ambition for leadership and as if not fully satisfied with its acquisition of BRD-C, Atlas Mara almost immediately snapped up BPR –Rwanda’s biggest commercial bank in terms of branch network. Atlas Mara was making its foray into Rwanda 4 years after BK’s listings in August 2011 at The Rwanda Stock Exchange.

BK raised over US$62.5 million through an IPO at the Rwandan bourse and the listing enabled it to cement its leadership status of the market as a local brand after carrying out a massive branch expansion and modernization program. BK’s penetration strategy of maintaining its position in the market is in sharp contrast to that of a new entrant like Atlas Mara whose main driver of market penetration is carrying out mergers and acquisitions. Other new entrants such as Equity or KCB opted for green-field entries. This kind of entry strategy is much slower in gaining market share as opposed to leapfrogging through mergers and acquisitions that stands a higher chance of fast tracking the attainment of market share.

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From Left BPR CEO Sanjeeve Anand and the middle President Paul Kagame at the official launching ceremony

The strategy of mergers and acquisition of existing and dominant players has enabled Atlas Mara to start the process of hotly contesting in a very short period of less than 5 years the coveted position of local market leader. When looked at in the form of pure business strategy the acquisition of BRD-C and its merger with BPR can be said to be a perfect fit for Atlas Mara-despite the challenges that came up with awakening BPR-considered by market watchers as a sleeping giant in the sector. The merger according to Atlas Mara created a new financial power house in the market whose positioning was unveiled at the recent Kigali WEF meeting where its founders are active participants. “We are supportive of Rwanda’s efforts to become East Africa’s financial services hub. Right from our inception we have 34 JUNE 2016 ISSUE 65

consistently said that we aspire to become Sub Saharan Africa’s premier financial services provider. We will achieve that in part by becoming a leading player in the country through our acquisition of BRD-C and BPR”, commented John Vitalo at the sidelines of the Kigali WEF meeting. It did not escape the minds of many that the new outfit in the market that is angling to gain the top slot is led by Mr.Sanjeev Annand- a top rated professional considered as the number one turn- around artist in Rwanda’s banking sector.

Mr Annand while giving an indicator on what to expect in the market commented at WEF meeting; “Modern commercial banking driven by advances in technology at the very least ought to be regional or at most continental or at the very optimal level global by nature”, adding that, “banking brands that are restricted by their ownership styles or by other limiting operational factors to national boundaries will find their operations constricted as the market embraces larger regional blocs which is now a reality.

Sanjeev is a former CEO of I&M Bank Rwanda that was formed as a result of another acquisition deal in which Kenya’s I&M Bank acquired BCR. Mr Annand, widely credited with being instrumental in BCR’s turn around in the market was settling in the new BPR executive suite to replace Mr.Ephraim Turahirwa a privatization guru even as BK was experiencing a similar change.

The BPR-BRD-C merger backed by Atlas Mara provides a continental banking platform that is good for the local business community”. The changes at BK saw Dr James Gatera the long serving CEO who was at the helm during the bank’s listing, being replaced by Dr Dianne Karusisi. The new BK CEO is the second woman to hold such a top position in the market.

Dr Karusisi while presenting the banks results of the first quarter of 2016, says that BK is keen on continuing with its status as local market leader. As market leader BK posted interest income of US$23.5 million compared to US$ 20.5 million a year ago. Net interest income stood at US$18.1 million compared to US$ 16 million a year ago while profit before tax was US$10.5 million compared to US$9.8 million a year ago. “Our fundamentals are very strong and our linkage to the economy is unshakable so we will continue with our quest of being second to none in the market”, While in terms of sector’s latest reporting metrics the new BPR is second in asset base to BK courtesy of the merger, Atlas Mara is keen to point out that the new BPR is a leader in the market in customer touch points. Given its vast unmatched market footprint John Vitalo adds that the new BPR is on course to unleash positive disruptive force in the market with a view to creating a new convergence in the market based on increasing local financial inclusion with competitive banking services as a way of improving livelihoods of Rwandan

citizens to foster meaningful growth. In order to get a preview of the new dynamics taking shape, Rwanda Development Board (RDB) CEO Mr Francis Gatera terms Atlas Mara’s strategy a game changer in the market. “They have significantly helped revamped BRD that we had for many years; they took on its commercial operations and have positioned it for the future. Atlas Mara is one of the fastest growing banking networks in Africa and by taking over BPR-which for a long time has been a network of cooperatives –and incorporating it into a group with broader sub-Saharan Africa ambition is a strategy that can only be termed as a very interesting prospect”. The RDB CEO adds; “I see Atlas Mara as a major contributor to the financial sector in Rwanda in addition to bringing additional capital and expert knowledge into the economy”. Given its superior acquisition strategy and heavy financial resources it remains to be seen whether Atlas Mara will snap another home grown brand whose full potential is waiting to be tapped in the market in order to fully prepare for unseating of BK from the top slot. The

“Umurenge” sacco system is a huge national asset waiting for a suitor of the type represented by Atlas Mara in the market. For over 4 years the grass roots savings mobilization scheme has been patiently waiting for a technical partner to enable it transition into a fully fledged commercial bank. If Atlas Mara acquires Rwanda’s home grown village banking system then the prospect of unseating BK from the top slot will become much more compelling and realistic in the short run. Why? With a fully paid up capital of US$32 million and operating over 400 branches located in each of Rwanda’s tiniest administrative units with over 90 percent having reached break even points and over 2 million active account holders representing over a fifth of entire Rwandan population-the Umurenge Sacco system is a ripe system for acquisition by a player of Atlas Mara’s stature. The accounts hold with over US$75 million in deposits along with over US$130 million in assets and growing at over 40 percent annually.

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Rev. Jesse Jackson visits BRALIRWA commends

its good practices

Renowned American civil rights activist, Baptist minister and politician Rev. Jesse Louis Jackson yesterday commended BRALIRWA’s business practices that are aligned to international good business practices during his courtesy visit to the Coca-Cola bottler’s soft drinks factory in Kicukiro district, Kigali this June during his visit to Rwanda.

am impressed by Coca-Cola’s investment and development in Africa. Coca-Cola is the largest employer in all of Africa, from South Africa to Egypt. And it goes beyond the beverage industry to impact many more other sectors. For instance, because of the CocaCola plants, sugarcane farmers on the continent

have a market to sell their products because the sugar produced has a market,” he said after the tour of the factory. Jackson together with his son and daughter arrived in Kigali in the second week of June accompanying Ahmet Muhtar Kent, the Chairman and CEO of The Coca-Cola Company, to the launch a solar-powered flagship EKOCENTER

site in Rwanda, which stands to benefit up to 25,000 residents of Ruhunda Cell, Gishari Sector in Rwamagana district—with access to facilities such as an upgraded and equipped health centre, 3G WiFi-enabled internet, a purified water collection centre, mobile charging services, a retail store, and a fully lit football pitch.

"We produce Primus beer, our main brand since 1959 and our soft drinks plant started operating in 1974 in partnership with The Coca-Cola Company. We produce Coca-Cola brands; Coca-Cola, Fanta Orange and Fanta Citron, Fanta Fiesta, Sprite, Krest Tonic and own brand Vital’ O". So there is some burden on the world to help revive Rwanda and the civil society,” he said. “We are seeing Rwanda now, stable, growing and attracting investments, and that is exactly what happens when the country is stable; it continues to make strides in all possible ways.”

ABOUT BRALIRWA BRALIRWA Ltd is a Rwandan company producing and selling beers and soft drinks. The Company’s beer portfolio includes Primus, Mützig, Guinness, Amstel and Turbo King produced in our Gisenyi brewery and Heineken beer which is imported. We produce Primus beer, our main brand since 1959 and our soft drinks plant started operating in 1974 in partnership with The Coca-Cola Company. We produce Coca-Cola brands; Coca-Cola, Fanta Orange and Fanta Citron, Fanta Fiesta, Sprite, Krest Tonic and own brand Vital’ O.

Among other good practices, Rev. Jackson noted that BRALIRWA’s water treatment plant at the factory which is crucial to the supply of portable water in Kigali given that many Africans die every day due to lack of safe drinking water and the many diseases that arise as a result of its lack.

memory a monument has been erected at the Kigali based soft drinks plant. “Rwanda has come from the dark night of the Genocide”, Rev. Jackson said, noting that the whole world cried out to stop the genocide, but the intervention came too late. “The world should have been more mindful of what was about to happen and what happened.

The company was founded in 1957 with the construction of a brewery in Gisenyi, located at Lake Kivu. Since 1971, BRALIRWA Ltd is part of the internationally renowned Group Heineken which holds 75% of BRALIRWA Ltd shares while the 25% remaining shares are hold by independent shareholders. As a socially responsible company BRALIRWA Ltd supports a variety of projects from Education to Health and Environment.

“Because of Coca-cola a lot of development takes place so there is more to the coke than just the taste and the refreshment. All corporations need to learn from and sustain this model,” he noted. Ecstatic about the visit, BRALIRWA Managing Director Jonathan Hall told Hope Magazine that it was an enormously special occasion and a great honour to have Reverend Jackson at the factory. “For him to have the time to come here on very short notice and spend a couple of hours with us is fantastic,” Hall said. “He has a special relationship with Coca-Cola particularly in Africa and the United States and the points he made about clean water in Africa and gender balance among our staff were absolutely right,” Hall added. And true to the Reverend’s complements, BRALIRWA according to Hall has made efforts to deal with the acute lack of access to safe drinking water and gender balance at the workplace among others. Reverend Jackson also took time to pay homage to former BRALIRWA staff killed during the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi and in whose

VisionFund

Transforming entrepreneurs’ lives �Being a successful entrepreneur isn’t an easy feat given the financing needs many present today. Unlike most financial institutions that don’t look out for the start-ups for their high-credit risk, VisionFund Rwanda (VFR) is constantly changing that concept. This month, we bring you two stories from inspiring women-entrepreneurs in Kigali whose businesses have grown substantially thanks to the affordable credit lines of VFR. Poline Yankurije a mother of four and a trader in Nyabugogo Market in Kigali has banked with VFR for the past year and a half. This is her story. “Before I joined VFR, I was still a fruits trader in Nyabugogo but I had limited funding to grow my business,” she narrated last month. “I started with Rwf 500,000 but it was not enough. This is why I approached VFR so that I could get money to increase my capital,” she said.

Jacqueline Nibarore an entrepreneur in Kimisagara market, located in the Kigali suburb has been a member of VisionFund for the past two years. She, like other account holders at the leading microfinance institution can testify how VisionFund has enabled them to succeed in their business and support their families. “A couple of friends of mine put me in touch with the staff of VisionFund and ever since then I have never failed to get financing to run my business from VFR,” she narrated to Hope Magazine last month. “From my business, I am able to pay back my loan on time, take care of my family and also pay taxes. Unfortunately, thieves stole my bag which contained Rwf 300,000 that set me back a few months ago. Thankfully, I was financially stable and was able to bear the loss without having to report to VFR.” She said she is now remaining with only two months to clear her current loan and that she can’t stop thanking the people at VFR for constantly ensuring that she has adequate funding for her business. “It is the first financial institution I have worked with and they have helped me raise my four children to where they are today. Before getting to know VFR, I was a cleaner earning a paltry Rwf 60,000 which I used to budget to feed my family under a lot of strain. However, today I do it with a lot of ease.” She urged fellow women from across the country to open up savings accounts with VFR and start doing business in order to come out of poverty. She also attests that the financial training banking with VFR comes with enables them to know how to plan their finances, a key factor towards attaining continued financial stability. 40 JUNE 2016 ISSUE 65

She said she first got a loan of Rwf 200,000 to sell more fruits and that it made her business grow to a point where she has built her own house, pays school fees for her children in good private schools and sustain her family at home. “Through investing VFR funds in my business, I was able to grow and earn more profits on fruits at an affordable cost. This is because I pay the loan once a month an amount which I can make in a week,” she explained. “I have also learnt a lot from VFR as regards planning for my finances. Specifically, I was taught never to mix money from my business to my person finances,” she noted. She urged people not to fear to engage in doing business on their own and to approach VFR to kick start their businesses. “Like me, you can also succeed through VFR.”.

RUHUNDA EKOCENTER

leveraging partnerships to unlock community development potentials ff Presently, there are over 100 EKOCENTERS across Africa and Asia sponsored by Coca Cola. By end year 2016, the number is expected to be 171. EKOCENTERS are social enterprising initiative aimed at bringing technological advancement and infrastructure developments to remote areas of the world where they would otherwise take longer to reach.

Coca Cola, Tigo-Rwanda and the government came together to develop the EKOCENTER and the resulting infrastructure is a complex facility that brings multi-faceted development to the village. In the Ruhunda EKOCENTER, Coca Cola provided the signature infrastructure of a vibrant modern business centre in the village, solar powered to bring the globally enjoyed beverages taken for granted elsewhere to this remotely located centre. The centre also sells a variety of everyday fast moving consumer goods, and affordable solar energy solutions that are bound to revitalize life in the area. But thanks to the partnership with several other players, more has been delivered.

Connectivity

cutting ribbon L-R; Ms. Odette Uwamariya Governor of Rwanda's Eastern Province, Rev. Jackson, H.E Paul Kagame and Coca Cola CEO and Chairman of Board Ahmet Muhtar

echnology brought closer to communities in remote regions is oftentimes in form a community one-stop shop making coca cola refreshments accessible in addition to all fast moving consumer goods that are mostly inaccessible to these rural communities. The one-stop shop is solar powered with a 2kwhr peak panel to run the facility’s equipment largely made up of refrigeration, printing equipment, an express photo studio, in addition to any other services deemed necessary and inaccessible in the area. To better capture the difference such a moderate infrastructure development stands to make, think of a rural village located far from the main townships and with little connectivity to the rest of the country and world.

in Rwamagana District, in the country’s Eastern Province. But unlike any other similar facilities elsewhere or in other parts of Rwanda, the Ruhunda EKOCENTER brings a new perspective; partnerships that facilitate scaled impact. For instance is of being powered by a 2kwhr peak solar system, it has been doubled to 4kwhr. At the Ruhunda EKOCENTER, a tri sector partnership of civil society, public sector and business community was attained giving birth to a pseudo philanthropic-social enterprising model. Ericson, Medshare, Pentair, Solarkiosk, Philips,

Ericson built a solar powered mast to bring strong mobile telephone connectivity signal to the area, partly offering solution to the connectivity challenge. Tigo Rwanda on the other hand set up 3G Wi-Fi connectivity at the centre e resablingidents of this remote village to for the first time have wireless connectivity within their vicinity and be able to harness broad band’s many benefits. Locals are excited with the internet with many already thinking about what else they can do to benefit from the newly acquired connectivity. “There are oftentimes opportunities for online registration for several services for instance driving license registration, birth certificates and many others. I hope I will be able to go with my computer to the centre and make some money helping people with these online applications while saving them of making long journeys to Rwamagana to get similar services,” Ndikubwayo Eric a resident of Ruhunda and a student at a Rwandan university in Rwamagana said. Besides the wireless connectivity at the EKOCENTER, the mast also allows that residents can now enjoy even faster connection speeds when using other internet sources like modems.

In this village, people are required to travel long distances on foot or bicycles –for the luckier ones –to purchase household consumer commodities from townships that are far off. Even then, there are several items they will not access or will never know even exist on the market. In such communities, luxuries such as having a cold Coca-Cola on one hot day are farfetched. It is within this rural setting, disjointed from modernity that EKOCENTERS are established. This primary description of an EKOCENTER has been constructed in a remote village of Rwanda in Ruhunda Cell of Gishari Sector Residents of Ruhunda overjoyed by the visit of Coca Cola CEO and the the EKOCENTER 44

Ahmet Muhtar Kent Coca Cola CEO addresses residents during the inauguration

resident in the locality of the EKOCENTER said she could not believe that they will now be enjoying mineral water fully purified like “rich people in town”. “I tasted the water from the water purifying unit, goodness it tastes so well. It is not smoked and it is very clear.”

Entertainment and social cohesion Phillips, yet another partner in the Ruhunda EKOCENTER project lit the local pitch making it fully lit such that games and any other functions can go on till late in the evening without any disruption. If you were thinking about power outages, don’t; the lights on the pitch similar to those on the street in Ruhunda are solar powered. Also, another part of the business unit of the EKOCENTER

our country is most commendable. This project in Ruhunda embodies that commitment, building on a number of other EKOCENTERS that are already in place around Rwanda”. Currently, there are 23 Coca Cola sponsored EKOCENTERS across Rwanda mostly located in the Eastern and Northern Province. A total of 35 are targeted to be built in the country in the near future. The President further noted, “The facilities inaugurated here demonstrate that the well-being and advancement of communities is a responsibility for all of us for by working together with other companies, as well as government, civil society, and most importantly citizens themselves, a win-win situation has been created for everyone involved.” Also speaking at the inauguration of the Ruhunda EKOCENTER, Coca Cola’s Chief Executive and Chairman of the Board Muhtar Kent said that this facility will going forward serve as a model which they will aspire to replicate.

Water purification units installed at the EKOCENTER

Good health To further make the centre a catalyst for socioeconomic development, Pentair established two water purification units which are set to produce 20,000 litres of clean, safe drinking water given to the community at very affordable rates. A 20lt container from the Amazi Meza (safe water) sell-off point at the centre will go for Rwf50. Compared to a 30ml bottle of mineral water selling for Rwf300, the safe drinking water sold at the Ruhunda EKOCENTER is rightly the most affordable in the whole of Rwanda. Several people, who participated in the event to launch the EKOCENTER on June 13th were only constrained by lack of containers to carry the water, but those who could, queued to buy some for their own household consumption. Besides the expectation that access to affordable drinking water will lead to reduction in poor hygiene escalated diseases and infections, the development as anticipated by many will significantly help in reducing quantities of firewood consumed in boiling drinking water in and around Ruhunda. In addition to making safe drinking water affordably accessible, Medshare another partner in the EKOCENTER project donated modern medical supplies and equipment to the local health centre. B e s i d e s d ay t o d ay me d i c i ne s a nd ot he r consumables required in operating the health fa c i l i t y, M e d s h a re, a N o n - G ove r n m e n t a l Organisation that supports people to have access to medical supplies, also gave the Government of Rwanda run Ruhunda Health Centre new equipment. Donated equipment included, an ultrasound machine, an oxygen supplier machine which collects ordinary air and purifies it to provide oxygen to patients with obviously limited additional costs to the health facility, four adjustable medical beds to help in attending to critically ill patients and additional machines to the laboratory to up the capacity of the health centre to diagnose people’s infections. Many people were happy about the developments especially the safe drinking water that will be available to locals on an affordable rate. Nyinayezu Alphonsine, a mother of four and a

Some of the medical equipment donated to Ruhunda Health Centre as part of the EKOCENTER project

which will feature a community hall will soon be completed to add yet another dimension in the achievements that partnership has garnered on this project and Evary Murasa the Managing Director of Solarkiosk in Rwanda said. From just a business centre, the partners have been able to create a multi-faceted facility that improves the life of the community from numerous dimensions. Solarkiosk, just as is the case for all other Coca Cola sponsored EKOCENTERS will help a women cooperative in the area to manage the facility.

Ruhunda EKOCENTER proves human development is a collective responsibility The coming together of major global companies to develop the Ruhunda EKOCENTER, if anything, demonstrates to the rest of the world that the wellbeing of human society is a collective responsibility and that together, more can be done. This was reinforced by President Paul Kagame who joined Coca Cola and partners to launch the EKOCENTER. “Alongside Cola-Cola’s important business in Rwanda with BRALIRWA, the company’s attention to the socio-economic development of

“We launched the EKOCENTER because we know that our growth and our partners’ growth can only be sustainable when the communities we serve are strong. By working across the ‘golden triangle’ of business, government and civil society, we can support increased local investment and help make communities like Ruhunda more economically and socially sustainable.” Muhtar reiterated that philanthropic initiatives despite their great contributions to the socioeconomic wellbeing of vulnerable communities are challenged with the modality for sustainability. However with the business aspect of the EKOCENTER, the facility will be self-sustaining. The Coca Cola boss also expressed his enthusiasm for Rwanda’s development and pledged continued support to government and people’s initiatives to further develop the country.“Rwanda is on the move, marching towards a very prosperous future–and we are proud to be part of it at Coca Cola”. Locally, Coca Cola is represented by BRALIRWA which is licensed to produce the coca cola line of soft beverages. The EKOCENTER in Ruhunda is expected to serve at least 25,000 people from the cell and its neighbors. 45

Serena Hotel staff joins the

fight against the genocide ideology ffOn 23rd June 2016 Serena Hotel Kigali staff and management took an evening off to commemorate the Genocide against the Tutsis. At the event that was blessed by the Chairman of the National Council of Unity and Reconciliation (NCUR), Bishop John Rucyahana, participants were urged to actively take part in the fight against genocide ideology.

Serena staff

he main purpose of the event was to strengthen awareness among the staff about the dangers of the genocide ideology and to encourage members of the community to fight against it. Participants shared their experiences and discussed the history of the genocide and ways of creating a platform where strategies for healing can be set through memory of the Genocide as well as participate in peace activities in their communities. The main reason why we continue to focus on genocide denial and ideology during the commemoration is because the issues remain a big challenge. More people, especially the young, need to be told about it so that they can have adequate knowledge needed to counter it. “Kwibuka is not merely about remembering the lost lives of our beloved brothers

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and sisters but we strongly focus on the issues of the genocide-its history, why and how it happened, and more so the aftermath that left the country in total despair,” Rucyahana said. We should take the responsibility of telling others about what happened as a means of fighting it. He added. He also noted that as the nation commemorates the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, Rwandans and

Bishop Rucyahana and Charles Muia light the candle

friends of Rwanda are urged to continue comforting and encouraging survivors. “When we remember and think about what exactly happened-the acts of inhumanity, then we shall always say never again” he said. The bishop noted some examples and identified one of a breast feeding mother who decides to attack and kill the child of another fellow breast feeding mother. “These were acts that completely reduced and abused the humanity of the perpetrators putting them close to the nature of wild animals,” said the bishop. “We have to admit that we still have cases of Genocide ideology. Some forms of Genocide denial are still present,” Ruchyahana said. It is now 22 years since the RPF stopped the genocide but we realize that the charm of the genocide ideology is still planted in the minds of some Rwandans, he added. It is this charm that makes people hold to the genocide ideology and so we need to change their mindset. In his brief speech, the General Manager of Serena Kigali Hotel, Charles Muia thanked the participants for their attendance and sharing different interesting stories of experience and also called upon his staff continuously participate in the fight against the genocide ideology. “As we have always done every year, Serena hotel will continue giving support to genocide survivors as part of our corporate social responsibility,” he said.

About Serena Kigali Situated in Central Kigali, the political and commercial heart of Rwanda and the City’s pre-eminent meeting place for diplomats and businessmen. The Hotel is situated only 10 km from Kigali International Airport. Relaxed yet elegant, the hotel features an Executive Lounge and Bar, the hotel has one of the best Kigali Restaurants, a vibrant pool deck, an International Conference Center and Concierge Services. It is the most preferred place for events which lends itself ideally to the staging of weddings. The hotel also offers a full stage, outdoor terraces and landscaped grounds and fountains that create a unique and unforgettable atmosphere for your wedding day, an unequalled banqueting service, some unique family and friend’s accommodation packages and easily the most romantic selection of honeymoon suites available in Rwanda.

Serena supports genocide survivors in Mageragere ffAs part of its continuous Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activities, Rwanda’s leading five-star hotel, the Kigali Serena Hotel last month visited and donated towards the genocide survivors of Mageragere Sector in Nyarugenge District, Kigali.

About Serena Hotels Rwanda Kigali Serena Hotel: Ideally located on one of Kigali&#39;s most charming boulevards, the five-star Kigali Serena Hotel is built around a polished granite atrium, which showcases the very best of Rwandese cultural art. Relaxed yet elegant, the hotel features an Executive Lounge and Bar, which opens onto a wide sundeck overlooking the newly refurbished swimming pool. Also overlooking the pool, the popular Milima Restaurant offers a wide range of all-day buffet choices, while the relaxed Sokoni Café offers inside and outside poolside seating. Regarded by many as Kigali’s natural business hub, the hotel also boasts its own extensive conference centre, 500-seater auditorium and lavish ballroom. The Kigali Serena Hotel is one of the leading conference venues in Kigali.

Lake Kivu Serena Hotel: Serenely sited on the white sandy shores of Lake Kivu, the sixth largest lake in Africa, and surrounded by extensive tropical gardens, the tastefully open-plan Lake Kivu Serena Hotel offers the ideal extended holiday destination in Rwanda or week-end escape.

Mr. Muia (L) hands over a token of support to Goretti Mukamusoni, one of the genocide survivors in Mageragere staff of Kigali Serena Hotel visited last month

ed by their out-going General Manager, Mr. Charles Muia, the staff members of the Kigali Serena Hotel reached out to survivors of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, most of whom included widows and the elderly from 12 families. They handed to them bags of rice, sugar, maize flour, cooking oil and bars of soap.

Within several hours drive of both the Rwandan capital, and the glorious Volcanoes National Park (home of the world famous mountain gorillas), it overlooks its own private beach and offers; 66 luxury hotel rooms, executive suites and family accommodation, a panoramic restaurant, indoor and beachside bars, a luxury swimming pool, and the ‘Maisha Health Centre (offering an extensive range of health and beauty regimes, boating, swimming, volley ball, tennis, fishing, hiking and trekking). Our Lake Kivu hotel also boasts a world-class fully-integrated Conference Centre, allowing business personalities and firms to hold effective conferencing and networking sessions.

“I can’t find the words to describe your continued support to us. We are really appreciative of the support you have rendered to us over the years that has kept us going to where we are today,” Goretti Mukamusoni, representing the families told the staff of Kigali Serena Hotel during the visit. She said the visit goes a long way in showing the kind of solidarity the staff of the hotel have with them. Mr. Muia said priority had been made to visit the families and be with them as the country continues to commemorate the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi where more than 1 million lost their lives. “We want to continue supporting survivors of the genocide in order to ensure that we ensure that we all grow together in unity and prosperity,” he said.

Flanked by their out-going Country Manager, Charles Muia (C), staff of the Kigali Serena Hotel visited the Mageragere genocide survivors and handed various basic items to them

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Motoring... by - Joshua Nshuti

What is Car Servicing ? What do Garages do in a car service?

hen a car is designed, the manufacturer sets out a service schedule for the car, which they believe will keep it running reliably and safely. A well-maintained car is also more efficient, so you’ll save money on fuel as well. If you need to claim on a warranty, you’ll normally have to show that you’ve got a complete service record In order that the original manufacturer warranty is not invalidated, it is vital that the vehicle is serviced by a Workshop that follows the Manufacturer guidelines while carrying out the vehicle service. This is the biggest reason why you should always service your vehicle with Manufacturer Authorized Workshop.

Choosing where to get your car serviced With well trained staff, specialized equipment and up to standard workshops, a Dealership with a franchise for your make of car may have a better understanding of the faults that it tends to develop than private workshops in the market much as they may be cheaper. 52 JUNE 2016 ISSUE 65

Basic or Interim Service

Major Service

A Basic service typically includes an oil and filter change and visual inspection. An oil and filter change is one of the most crucial parts a service and is one of the few things included in all services.

A major service will have everything covered under a full service, but typically also include changing spark plugs or fuel filters and some other wear/service items recommended in the manufacturer schedule. This doesn’t mean there won’t be additional repair or maintenance work to add on, but it means some things are already included (whether you need them or not).

Garages have a ‘duty of care’ to customers when they work on their car. So all reputable garages will complete a Visual Safety Inspection when they work on a car, which identify any obvious safety concerns with a car, even if it is just booked in for an oil and filter change. A good garage, performing this kind of service, will usually check the brakes and manufacturer guidelines so that they can recommend any additional work that your car may need. Sadly, not all garages do though.

Full Service A full service will include the basic service work, as well as the fuel and air cleaners depending on condition or usage as per the Manufacturer’s Service schedule.

How Often Should You Service a Car? If you are doing high mileage an average mileage of 5,000 km is acceptable, then ideally you should have your vehicle serviced any where between 5,000km and 6,000km between services.

The Cost of Skipping Servicing ? When money’s short it can be tempting to skip servicing your car. But if you do this you run the risk of much bigger bills down the line. The average cost of a basic car service is around Rwf. 120,000 – far less than the cost of having to replace parts later because of damage through poor maintenance.

Jasbir Singh Managing Director