Hope Magazine - Issue 77 by Publisher of Hope Magazine

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JULY 2017 ISSUE 77

TELLING RWANDAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S STORY

MAGAZINE

RWANDA DECIDES

CONTENTS

HIGHLIGHTS Over the last seven years, Rwanda has registered tremendous progress in the four areas that constitute the backbone of the national programme, namely: economy, social welfare, good governance and justice. All these achievements were realized based on the RPF-INKOTANYIâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s determination, commitment to its political programme. The RPF-INKOTANYI believes that good governance and justice are key for a strong and stable Nation.

RPF INKOTANYI

RWANDA DESIDES

CONTENTS

COVER RWANDA DECIDES

36 BEVELOPMENT BANK OF RWANDA boosts electricity sector by investing in green energy 38 AIRTEL Staff join Kayonza residents in Umuganda 52 MOBISOL launches rent-to-own Solar TV system 54 VISION FUND'S loans helped Twigire group thrive 56 RRA Modern approach to Tax Administration

Airtel Rwanda

UAP Rwanda

7 EDITORIAL Victory belongs to Rwandans

KCB Bank Rwanda

RwandAir

FOOD & GO

6 20-21

Access Bank Rwanda Davis and Shirtliff

10 UBUMWE GRANDE HOTEL A Made in Rwanda approach to luxury hospitality

18 NPD Projects to Post Rwf41b Earnings this year

Bourbon Coffee Safintra Limited

UBUMWE GRANDE HOTEL

12 RWANDA DECIDES Getting ready to support government efforts in building Rwanda

Advertisers

41 50-51

Herocean Enterprises

Sinotruk

TIGO Rwanda

24 KCB BANK RWANDA appoints Acting manager

RPF Victory Messages

32 FOOD & GO The Tasty Healthy Nutrition complement to Waka Fitness

52 4

MOBISOL RWANDA

M Peace Plaza

Hope Magazine Limited

Development Bank of Rwanda

BPR Bank Rwanda

Akagera Business Group

Grazia Apartments

Ubumwe Grande Hotel

Nakumatt Supermarket

Rwanda Foam

ROKO Construction Limited

Bralirwa

Engen Rwanda

NPD Limited

Ameki Color

Access Bank Rwanda

Imana Steel Rwanda

MTN Rwanda

Century Real Estate

Ultimate Developers Limited

Technomark Limited

HOPE MAGAZINE JULY ISSUE 77

PUBLISHER'S WORD

TEAM Albert Ndata Allan Migadde Ben Gasore Erwin Winkler Himbana Alexandre Ishimwe Yvonne Keith Ntagozera Latim Lawrence Manzi Joseph Micheal Balinda Mutabazi Jackson Rumanzi Abraham

Victory belongs to Rwandans � The Journey that Rwandans started, a journey of determining our destiny and choosing people that will lead us there continues to gain momentum without allowing any iota of force, external and otherwise, to divert us. Even the razor-laced criticisms, have united Rwandans more, opened our eyes better, and have decided to speak with a voice that is so eloquent and loud, carrying a message of building the Rwanda we want.

Shema Ignace Shema Leonard Sindayirwanya Isabelle Rebero Daniel

DESIGN & LAYOUT Dani K. PUBLISHED BY HOPE HOLDINGS LTD

ADVERTISING & GENERAL INQUIRIES P.O. Box 6176 Kigali-Rwanda +250 788 524189 / +250 788 404138 info@hope-mag.com www.hope-mag.com

his voice, with all humility, was aired in the 4th August presidential elections where a humbling 98% voted in President Paul Kagame to keep steering Rwanda to greater heights. Other political parties, peasants, civil servants, private sector , and many other categories, all added to the strength of that voice through different acts of valor. Kagame’s participation in the 2017 presidential elections was an answer to a people’s call because with an undivided sense of direction we know our history, not as scholars and self-appointed pundits, but as people who witnessed its unfolding, changed its course and now rewriting new chapters through those salient actions that will deliver us to Rwanda we want. During the campaigning process, President Kagame raised a number of salient questions among which were; How can you tell me how to live when it is you I fought to regain my livelihood? What RPF has fought for, lost people for, we cannot let it go to waste.

Do not accept to be dictated to with useless lessons. Let us continue to stand up for our dignity, our livelihood, our country.” Another interesting question that the RPF candidate put across was; “How can you teach us democracy when you are contesting your own?” Such and many quips are therefore good answers to diplomats and members of the international community that were ‘disturbed’ and ‘concerned’ by their own ill-conceived political sentiments. So, Kagame’s statement immediately after initial results on 4th August indicated his landslide victory was a good response that bespeaks of ingenuity and RPF’s commitment to Rwanda and Rwandans. He said thus: “I am here because I honored your wishes as the Rwandan people; today is proof that this election was truly the will of the people. Despite the critics of our democracy, you have proven that Rwandans know what they want. Now the work begins, to continue transforming Rwanda and ensuring a dignified life for every citizen.” Congratulations H.E President-Elect Paul Kagame.

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Care is taken to ensure accuracy, Hope Magazine assume no liability for error or omissions in this publication. All Advertisements are taken in good faith, opinions and views contained herein are not necessarily those of the Publisher. All copyrights and trademarks are recognized. No part of this publication or any part of the contents thereof may be reproduced, stored in retrieval system or transmitted in any form without written permission by Hope Magazine. An exemption is hereby granted for extracts with the purpose of fair review. © 2013

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UBUMWE GRANDE HOTEL SPECIAL FEATURE

“Our policy is to have 90% of Rwandan staff, even our executive chef is Rwandan; the expatriates we bring in should help to upgrade the skills of the local staff,” he explains. “We are distinctly Rwandan, you cannot find Ubumwe elsewhere.” “With us, you get Rwandan dishes, Rwandan service, Rwandan smiles – in brief, Rwandan hospitality,” he adds. “The staff are our unique selling point, they are Ubumwe – that is how we position ourselves.” “That is why we invest a lot in them to ensure they’re happy here; we work as equals here, each in his own role, and they feel they’re doing it for the hotel,” Munyeki says.

Apartment living room Rooftop Rendez-Vous

Ubumwe Grande Hotel a Made in

Rwanda approach to luxury hospitality The Rooftop Rendez-Vous bar and grill is not only literally the cherry on the cake of Ubumwe Grande Hotel in the city centre of Kigali, it also symbolises the establishment’s unique approach to hospitality.

Black forest gateau

Classic King room

s the name indicates, the Rooftop RendezVous is located on top of the 12-storey hotel which is one of the tallest even among the many new skyscrapers in the city, and it therefore offers an amazing panoramic view of Kigali and its surrounding hills. And as Ubumwe’s General Manager Kenn Munyeki points out, that landscape is also integrated in the bar’s design, as the tented roof has several peaks that symbolise Rwanda’s thousand hills. That subtle reference to Rwanda is no coincidence. In a city where several international luxury hotels have set up shop in just the last two years, Ubumwe Grande Hotel wants to stand out as a home-grown competitor. “We’re a 4-star hotel that offers 5-star services,” Munyeki says. “So we concentrate on our service and people; our staff is our biggest asset, and we continuously train them.” And he is proud to say that the majority of the staff is Rwandan. 10

“And I also want to debunk the myth that Rwandans are not good at services, it’s not true; Rwandans have the best attitude for hospitality, all you have to do is teach them the skills to apply it in a hotel.” In addition, since about a month the hotel has live inanga music every Wednesday night, and they also want go big on local entertainment with music evenings from Wednesday to Saturday. In the same philosophy, Ubumwe Grande Hotel buys its food locally as much as possible, and therefore all the beef and vegetables, and most of the fruit served there, to name but a few, come from Rwandan suppliers. What is even better is that prices at Ubumwe are very competitive for a hotel of its standing. “We’re not targeting a specific audience, we have competitive rates that are affordable for the majority of Rwandans,” Munyeki says, adding that nevertheless given their central location in the business district where there are lots of offices, especially of banks and insurance companies, they are looking at that market. He also points out that he is happy to note an increase in regional MICE tourism (meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions).

“The government is doing its best to promote MICE, and has put everything in place to attract it, but it has also been the main driver behind it. With four big hotels having come into the market in the past year alone, it’s the hotels that are becoming the drivers,” Munyeki remarks. “I’ve seen a lot of growth and improvement in regional MICE – from DR Congo, Kenya, Uganda. So far it has mainly relied on conferences, but now you also start seeing for example Kenyan companies that used to go to Mombasa for meetings, come to Kigali. It’s becoming a hub

UBUMWE GRANDE HOTEL

Kenn Munyeki General Manager Ubumwe Grande Hotel’s HOPE MAGAZINE JULY ISSUE 77

110 Classic Rooms 4 Classic –Terrace 9 Deluxe Rooms 10 Juniour Suits 19 apartments fully furnished apartments

6 meeting rooms Gym Heated Swimming pool Restaurants and rooftop bar Live Entertainment

RWANDA DECIDES

RWANDA DECIDES GETTING READY TO SUPPORT GOVERNMENT EFFORTS IN BUILDING THE RWANDA WE WANT 2017 - 2024

President - Elect Paul Kagame at the rally during the 2017 election campaigns 12

HOPE MAGAZINE JULY ISSUE 77

RWANDA DECIDES ffJust like its topography, Rwanda’s history has been that of beauty and hardships. Much as the said hardships of bad politics and discrimination were manmade and nurtured by colonial masters and fuelled by leaders of yesteryears for decades, when the new era that saw liberation visited on every Rwandan dawned, no amount of resistance could deflect that change.

It therefore comes with flooding and luxuriantly well-wrought jubilation when Rwandans celebrate, not only President Paul Kagame’s election for a new 7-year mandate, but an entire spectrum of deeds, innovations, infrastructures, perceptions, unity and carrying the flag, building foundations and walking the path of building the Rwanda we want. We have decided.

looking for a job, but one offering his ingenuity to the service of the people of Rwanda. He, at the same time asked party members to start thinking of his replacement; a process he advised should be addressed in the next seven years. “I hope that the next seven years will be used to address the issues that made you ask me to stand another time. It is something you must think about.”

Choice

Kagame noted that the people in favour of his standing again had a better understanding of Rwanda’s circumstances than those that were opposed to a third go at Rwanda’s presidency. “The pressure not to run was less informed and meaningless than the pressure for me to accept,” he said. This means RPF’s choice, Kagame’s acceptance and the masses’ adherence through overwhelming vote are all a good demonstration of what was emphasized at the selection day thus; “The

During his acceptance speech when he was elected the flag-bearer for RPF-INKOTANYI, President Kagame, in his usual wit of delivering strong messages, quipped, counselled and assure all at the same go. He, in no uncertain terms, let the party members, Rwandans and the world know that he is not into the position he occupies as one

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FOCUS ON 2017- 2024 PRESIDENTIAL ELECTIONS RWANDA DECIDES RPF INKOTANYI GOALS GOOD GOVERNANCE STRONG SECURITY ORGANS SOCIAL WELL-BEING

P12 P14 P28 P42 P46

pressure not to run was less informed and meaningless than the pressure for me to accept,” he said.

Rallies that spoke volumes As time for campaigns started, there was clear demonstration and show of mutual love for the two sides; the voters and Kagame. The mammoth gatherings that characterized RPF rallies were just one part of the story. There are other stories such as how the Kigali business community pooled resources to facilitate the campaigns, RPF-Inkotanyi supporters in the diaspora also mobilized other Rwandans into voting for a man that has seen the country rise from ashes to becoming an African model of development, building the foundations of Unity, Democracy and Development, a message he carried and flagged wherever he went for the campaigns.

RWANDA DECIDES Throughout the campaigns, Paul Kagame gave those messages of hope and courage. He likened the case of the country to a seed that was buried but germinated. In all districts and provinces, he tasked people who thronged rally grounds to go out and vote for continuity in order for the ruling party to consolidate gains they have gained so far. Messages of working together to develop Rwanda were the major on his political menu, advising every Rwandan to use the chances available to build Rwanda and freely live in it. Speaking at one rally,

Kagame told supporters not to pay attention to those who do not want to listen because of RPF’s achievements in a country they destroyed. He said they don’t understand how the country can be this unified today because they wanted to build Rwanda using the foundation of divisions. ‘‘There are those who don’t understand Rwanda’s uniqueness because of the role they played in Rwanda’s past, we are unique because of the path to the transformation we chose, we are unique because of how we have turned our tragic

history around. They don’t understand how the country they prepared to be divided transformed into a strong and uniform nation.’’ Residents in districts where rallies took place appreciated and commended the RPF candidate for having stopped the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, helping widows to get a smile on their faces, supporting orphans, improving on education, health, electricity and water supply. “We will achieve our goals if we keep working together towards the same goal, irrespective of our difference, voting RPF means continuing the transformation journey.”

WHAT ARE THE GOALS? The RPF-Inkotanyi 2017 Manifesto is very explicit, clearly and precisely spelt out, hinging on ECONOMIC, GOOD GOVERNANCE AND JUSTICE AND SOCIAL WELFARE. In the ECONOMIC sphere, RPF top priority will be to fast-track the economic development for all that is based on the private sector investment, knowledge and natural resources; In the area of SOCIAL WELFARE, focus will be to provide an adequate standard of living for every Rwandan, so that he or she can grow into a self-reliant and capable citizen, through a stable society, quality education and healthcare and with respect to GOOD GOVERNANCE AND JUSTICE, attention will be on putting in place good governance and justice systems designed to act as a spur to sustainable national development.

Building Economic Foundations

2010-2017 Economic Achievements

The RPF-INKOTANYI believes that Rwanda’s economy is based on: the strengths and knowledge of the Rwandan people, the country’s natural resources, international trade and cooperation and partnerships with all stakeholders.

Over the last seven years’ mandate, several notable achievements have been realized as a result of working closely with the Rwandanpeople. The economy has registered sustained and impressive growth with Gross domestic Product (GDP) more than doubling over the same period.

Over the last seven years (2010-2017), Rwanda’s economy has registered notable growth. Over the next seven years (20172024), the RPF-INKOTANYI will deploy more efforts to fast-track inclusive economic development and continue mobilizing citizens to contribute towards increased self-reliance for the country.

Key sectors or programmes that have grown to more than double their initial level include: Agriculture and livestock production; Industrial production; Output in the services sector; GIRINKA: number of cows provided through the “One Cow per Poor Family” Programme, mobile phone penetration and access to electricity. Other major achievements include: decrease in the number of people living in poverty from 45% in

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2010 to 39% in 2014; Completion of large scale development projects including: Kigali Convention Center and first class hotels across the country. The capacity of RwandAir has been strengthened with new aircrafts to expand its network to 22 international destinations. Financial inclusion has increased from 48% in 2008 to 89% in 2015 while in infrastructure, new roads have been constructed, existing ones rehabilitated and maintained and Rwandans with access to safe drinking water have increased from 74.8% in 2011 to 84.4% in 2014 and continues to grow. The RPF-INKOTANYI will build on these achievements and continue working with the Rwandan people to scale up achievements and register further progress based on the following pillars:

RWANDA DECIDES

Economic Development Targets 2017-2024 The RPF-INKOTANYI will continue to fast-track inclusive economic development based on, private sector investment, knowledge and the country’s natural resources with focus on creating decent jobs to spur development and social welfare of the Rwandan people and increasing the number of TVET graduates with skills tailored to labor market demands; In a bid to strengthen employment and creating 200,00 off-farm jobs, RPF will emphasize that TVET graduates acquire start-up tool kits, promote innovation and ICT projects and support a model income-generating project in each village.

neighboring countries. Sustainable exploitation of Rwanda’s natural resources will be carried out with coherent exploration activities to determine the actual potential of the country’s natural resources and increase the value of mining production through promotion of processing plants in addition to developing the capacity of artisanal miners. Building a competitive economy will involve promotion of a knowledge-based and service economy which will involve continued delivery of financial services closer to the Rwandan people through the use of

to be given priority by working with the private sector to increase the surface of consolidated and irrigated land and promote agricultural mechanization; double the land area covered by terraces (radical) and ensure their optimal use for crop production. This will also call for working with the private sector to build storage facilities across the country and add value to agricultural produce; raise the production of high-value crops, including horticulture, flowers, vegetables, fruits, among others and establish programmes to improve

technology and putting in place mechanisms to promote long term savings and pension for all Rwandans including those in the informal sector. The government will also develop and operationalize the Kigali Innovation City to promote innovation in science and technology, develop ICT skills among the youth and put more efforts into promoting research and development as a key to fast-tracking Rwanda’s economic transformation. Quality, productivity and production of agriculture and livestock are

professionalization of livestock farmers and improve the quality, production and productivity of their output. There will be no relenting in protection of the environment as there will be continued strengthening of forest management and ensure their sustainable exploitation; halve the number of households depending on firewood as a source of energy for cooking and develop a project to manage water flows from volcanoes and rivers to mitigate related disasters.

Sustainable urbanization, rural development, and housing for the improved wellbeing of Rwandans are also on a high table agenda which will be promoted through facilitating decent settlement of Rwandans including relocation of those living in high-risk zones and ensure universal access to water and electricity, improve rural and urban transport services and develop waste management systems in cities, towns and rural areas. Also high on the agenda is promoting “Made in Rwanda” products by working in partnership with the private sector to build new industries and expand the production capacity of existing industries as well as facilitating private sector to access finance and services to increase domestic production for exports. To entrench and enhance locally made products, the government wil build and develop trade-related infrastructure that will involve constructing 800 km of National asphalt roads including: NgomaBugesera-Nyanza, Base–GicumbiRukomoNyagatare, Huye-KibehoMunini, KagitumbaKayonza-Rusumo and Kigali Ring road; building and or rehabilitating 3,000 km of feeder roads; complete the construction of Bugesera International Airport and construct new modern cross-border markets that facilitate Rwanda’s trade with

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NPD RWANDA SPECIAL FEATURE

NPD Projects to Post Rwf41b

Earnings this year, Increase

Turnover by 15 Percent Annually ffNPD Ltd is a Crystal Ventures Limited subsidiary and is Rwandaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s premier civil engineering and Construction Company delivering practical solutions to diverse clients. to all clients.vehicles), cobblestone& Quadra machines and plants with various capacities (asphalt plants and concrete plants as well as crushing plants) that are located in various parts of the country. All this support several construction and logistical needs NPD has incorporated social responsibility activities by giving back to local communities (working disadvantaged groups and construct local schools), maintaining staff safety, health, welfare, identifying existing career development programs in the industry to facilitate skills development among young professionals.

NPD Ltd specializes in :- construction of roads, dams, stadiums, production of concrete products, quarry operations, erecting and commissioning of high and medium voltage power transmission lines

ince its establishment in 1996, NPD Ltd has expanded steadily and specializes in the construction of roads, dams, stadiums, production of concrete products, quarry operations, erecting and commissioning of power transmission lines (high and medium voltage). The client base is ever increasing as the service and product range grows. Clients come from all sectors from government, to the private sector, civil society, social institutions such as schools and hospitals as well as individuals and major contractors. Driven by innovation to suit the market and client needs, NPD Ltd possesses a big fleet (trucks, earth moving equipment, small machinery and Over the past few years, NPD Ltd has sustained an average revenue of 26% and is well positioned to continue above this aggressive pace. Its growth is attributed to the efficient use of its resources and employment of sustainable innovative solutions in order to deliver high quality products and services

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Over the years, NPD Ltd has played a crucial role in the development of the infrastructural docket in Rwanda and aims to take its products and services beyond Rwanda and into the regional and continental market by bidding for large engineering projects

KCB BANK RWANDA SPECIAL FEATURE

BANK

KCB Bank Rwanda appoints

Acting managing director ffKCB Bank Rwanda has appointed George Odhiambo, the bank’s Head of Business Development and Client Services, as acting Managing Director effective August 1st 2017. This follows the departure of former Managing Director Maurice Toroitich.

“Subsequently, the bank derives satisfaction in contributing to landscape changing developments like the construction of Bugesera International Airport, Kigali Heights, Ubumwe Grand Hotel and Park Inn Radisson Blu among others and believes that the best times in helping to shape Rwanda’s economic development are still ahead,” George Odhiambo Acting Managing Director KCB Bank Rwanda

dhiambo joined KCB Bank Rwanda in September 2013 after serving as Head of Business Analytics & Transformation at KCB Bank Kenya. He has 18 years of experience in commercial banking. “I am humbled to take on this responsibility during an exciting and transitional period for both KCB Bank Rwanda and the financial sector in general.” Odhiambo said. “I am particularly pleased to champion the bank’s ambition in facilitating major infrastructure and financial technology development in Rwanda. My aim is to keep this momentum going in both the immediate and long term.’’

The acting Managing Director also congratulated his predecessor, Maurice Toroitich, for the commendable service provided during his 9-year tenure. “The staff, Management, Board and I would like to thank Maurice for the business foundation he built from inception and growth successes that the bank achieved during his leadership,” he said. “The bank is in a strong financial position and we will definitely look forward to seeing more progress in the coming years. We wish him all the best in his future endeavors. According to a statement by the bank, the change at the top doesn’t affect its operations, as it note that KCB Bank Rwanda

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remains committed to deliver on digital payments and investments in Rwanda’s key economic sectors. Earlier this year the bank launched Mvisa, and it is currently in the process of launching a new mobile credit service to its customers. “Subsequently, the bank derives satisfaction in contributing to landscape changing developments like the construction of Bugesera International Airport, Kigali Heights, Ubumwe Grand Hotel and Park Inn Radisson Blu among others and believes that the best times in helping to shape Rwanda’s economic development are still ahead,” the statement reads

RWANDA DECIDES

Testimony Girinka: Getting a real cash cow, restoring dignity, unity that even some of the crop residues are used in feeding his cows. The government support towards maintenance of cows for production and reproduction did not stop coming. “You see the Friesian cows given to us can easily get upset by diseases, so we needed incessant support.” As the program gained a thick footprint, the government had to provide training to the cow recipients many of who were getting into the trade for the first time. Though there were not enough trainers to cover the whole country, sector veterinarians were recruited into the programme and model farmers who could later pass on skills to others were too brought into the equation.There was a concomitant increment in Gervais’ milk production and crop yields; with each supplementing the other. In 2010 he bought more four acres of land. So he has six acres, two of which are totally used for forage and the rest for crop farming.

Out of poverty Girinka

A Gatsibo resident passes on the first born hiefer to a fellow Girinka beneficiary

Girinka story in Rwanda is like a song so tender and soulful. It is a development, home-grown initiative floating above the daily hunger-poverty eradication rhetoric. Its implementation has translated into signature achievements unprecedented before. "Girinka" is "have a cow". But for the poorest of the poor in Rwanda, it was a pure utopia to have such a milk-giving mammal.

Gervais was among the first to get a cow. “This was when my life began. After a little while, my Friesian cow delivered two calves one of which I passed on to one poor person as is the arrangement of the program. That particular cow delivered twins three times. I was that lucky,” he explains, telling, however, how the rapid multiplication came about with some challenges.

That changed when the government under President Paul Kagame launched the program in 2006 to benefit poor, hungry families, drastically reduce the number of undernourished children and guarantee farmers’ income. But all those ambitious targets with one cow per poor family? Apparently yes.

“I was an inexperienced cattle keeper, I had a tiny piece of land that could not support growth of enough forage, yet the market for milk was poor, a liter going for Rwf100.” This did not deter his focus of getting the best out of his cows. His family could take milk every day and the problems of hunger and malnutrition got defeated. As time went by Gervais’ herd grew to five cows in 2008, and despite the poor market for milk, he was able to save some money and bought a piece of land, two acres, which he used for growing forage and food for subsistence, further entrenching his family in the comfort of food and nutritional security.

Uzabakiriho Gervais a resident of Byamatebura village, Shangashya Sector in Gicumbi district tells it all. Orphaned at age 10 in 1985 when his father was assassinated, Gervais’ early life wrinkled into an unfurling path of uncertainty. At a tender age of 12, Gervais ventured into providing casual labour, working on people’s gardens and other forms of hard labour, a trade that he practiced for nearly 20 years but with nothing tangible to boast of despite the many hours of toil. In 2006 on the advent of Girinka Program ushered in by President Paul Kagame,

“When I bought the piece of land, I embarked on growing beans and Irish potatoes.” Gervais says it was from thence that crop and animal husbandry intersected and the transformative journey of his livelihood gained momentum. “I turned cow dung into manure, applied it in my gardens and the yields really got better,” he enthuses, adding

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Today, Uzabakiriho Gervais may not be a millionaire but he is, certainly, not poor any longer. He has 12 cows in total, five of which are milked. Milk sales earn him Rwf200,000 per month after expenses. From growing and selling beans (2 tonnes) he earns Rwf700,000 per season and Rwf1,500,000 from the sale of Irish potatoes (6tonnes). Sometimes he sells organic manure. He has three permanent farm attendants but during harvesting season, he hires as many as 10 people, mostly youth. He has built himself a 4-bedroomed bungalow at his Byamutebura village, bought a commercial house in the neighbouring Kajanjari trading centre at Rwf 4m and bought Rwf 5 m worth of shares in a Kigali-based real estate development company— MEG. Issues of school fees and medical insurance for his family of five children and wife are no longer any painful bother. He is thankful to President Paul Kagame for initiating Girinka and proud of his achievements. And it shows. "Thanks to Girinka I have not only got a steady income, but also my dignity has been restored. Cows are a cash factory which you just feed with grass and get milk, cash and dignity,” he concludes. When the program started, the government had a target of donating 257,000 heifers to poor families by 2015. The target was however raised to 350,000 households by 2017. By December 2016, a total of 246,428 families had benefited from the program.

RWANDA DECIDES

GOOD GOVERNANCE AND JUSTICE

Improving foreign corporation President Kagame on state visit to Djibouti

Over the last seven years, Rwanda has registered tremendous progress in the four areas that constitute the backbone of the national programme, namely: economy, social welfare, good governance and justice. All these achievements were realized based on the RPFINKOTANYI’s determination, commitment to its political programme. The RPF-INKOTANYI believes that good governance and justice are key for a strong and stable Nation. These are important pillars for national and citizen development. Therefore, the RPF-INKOTANYI continually seeks to promote the development of good governance and justice responding to the needs of the Rwandan people.

Foreign affairs and cooperation The number of embassies, high commissions and consulates of Rwanda has nearly doubled, especially in Africa. Rwanda has become the fourth largest troop contributor to peacekeeping operations worldwide. Also RwandAir capacity has been expanded to serve 22 international destinations. The Rwandan diaspora has been actively engaged in National programmes through “Rwanda Day” and “Come and See”, thereby increasingmotherland.

Justice Efforts have been strengthened to bring justice closer to the people (Conciliators, citizen forums, Access to Justice Bureaus- MAJ) leading to the citizens’ satisfaction with service delivery in the justice sector rising to 76.7%. New ICT-based solutions have been introduced to accelerate the delivery of justice and Rwanda’s justice sector has scooped a continental public management awardfor its Integrated Electronic Case Management System (IECMS). As a result, court backlogs have decreased by 70% for the period between 2011/12 and 2015/16. Cont'd

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In the last seven years, the good governance and justice sector has made continuous progress towards increasing its effectiveness and efficiency to fast-track the development for all. In the building of unity among Rwandans and promotion of Rwandan development values: the unity and reconciliation barometer, shows that unity and reconciliation increased from 82% in 2010 to 92% in 2016. Capacity of security organs has been strengthened to ensure law, order and security. The level of citizen satisfaction with their security has increased and reached 92%. Confidence in security organs has also increased to reach 99% in the Rwanda Defense Forces and 97.6% in Rwandan National Police. In the international arena, reports rank Rwanda as the safest country to live in Africa and fifth globally. The Bar Association plays a key role in the Administration of Justice and Rule of Law in Rwanda www.hope-mag.com

Pride of the Land of a Thousand Hills * Le Fierte de Pays des Mille Collines * Ishema ry'Igihugu cy'Imisozi Igihumbi #12 KN 82 St, B.P 90, Kigali-Rwanda (East Africa) Tel: 0252576472, 0252575457, 0788305979, Email: customercare@sulfo.com, Web: www.sulfo.com

FOOD & GO SPECIAL FEATURE

Debby Leatt and Food & Go staff show some of their products

The TASTY HEALTHY NUTRITION complement to Waka Fitness ffWhile most people associate a fitness club with exercise, at Waka Fitness they always stress that it is all about a healthy lifestyle, one of the pillars of which is healthy nutrition.

he launch of the Food & Go healthy fast-food service – a collaboration with catering company Food & Stuff – is testimony to this philosophy. Hope Magazine sat down with Debby Leatt, one of the founders of Food & Stuff, to talk about what Food & Go is all about.

What is Food & Go? What is the idea behind it and what services do you offer? Food & Go is focused on providing fast, healthy, and nutritionally balanced meals and snacks for people on the go. It developed out of my company Food & Stuff, which provides

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bespoke catering for private and corporate events. Food & Go provides a range of healthy options such as smoothies, salads, soups and healthy snacks. Some of our top sellers are the detox smoothie, superfood salad, and homemade granola bars. Everything is natural, with no added sugar.

FOOD & GO SPECIAL FEATURE

Food & Go Hot Beverage kitchen

What is healthy food and why is important, Is it for everyone or only for people that could benefit from losing a few pounds? We’ve teamed up with Jeanetta and Dennis at Waka Fitness because they’re as passionate about healthy living as we are. We want to work together to make healthy eating and active living accessible to everybody in Kigali. Healthy living doesn’t have to be about restrictions and discipline – it can be fun and delicious if the right options are available. What is the need in the market that you see as a business possibility? We noticed that there just aren’t enough fast and healthy options in Kigali. People are busy with work, families, and staying active, and the cost of imported goods makes it really hard to consistently eat healthily.

Food & Go Packed Products

Food & Go is our attempt to use Rwanda’s amazing fresh produce to fill that gap. How does Food & Go distinguish itself from other restaurants that claim that they serve healthy food? We try to pack as many nutrients and food groups into our products as we can to make every calorie count. For example, our Superfood Salad packs in veggies, complex carbs and proteins such as with quinoa. Quinoa is a complete protein, containing all of the essential amino acids your body needs, that’s great for vegetarians and meat eaters alike – it’s a superfood that’s hard to find in restaurants around in Kigali. How do you make sure to keep a high standard of your products, such as freshness, hygiene, quality control, etc. Isn’t it a challenge keeping

a high standard in this market? My passion is food. I have been a chef for over 15 years in the UK, South Africa, and now Rwanda. My aim is to maintain the highest quality in all of our food and instil that in the chefs I train. We strictly follow HACCP’s (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) international food safety guidelines and our staff is regularly trained to meet these standards. How can people get Food & Go’s products? Apart from the shop at Waka Fitness, people can order via phone or SMS on 0785-825-792 between 9am and 3pm, and we will deliver. We do have minimum order of Rwf 10,000 per delivery though. We have a menu that changes weekly which will be uploaded on our Food & Go website soon with all the details

Food & Go Vegetable food www.hope-mag.com

DEVELOPMENT BANK OF RWANDA SPECIAL FEATURE

BRD boosts electricity sector by investing in green energy ffThe Rwanda Development Bank (BRD) is looking at funding more methane gas projects to contribute to the government’s ambitious goal of generation 1,000 MW of electricity by 2020. In 2016, BRD adopted a strategic orientation for 2016-2020, in which energy was designated as a priority sector.

ince then, it has financed and co-financed power plants for a total energy generation of 82.2 MW, while others equivalent to 65.9 MW are in the pipeline. “These include methane gas projects that the bank is considering to fund with other investors,” says Hector T. Mutijima, Senior Manager in charge of Energy Financing at BRD. The projects co-financed by BRD will catalyse 4.8 times the private investments, and provide electricity to about 374,000 households.

BRD is considering to fund methane gas projects with other investors 36

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DEVELOPMENT BANK OF RWANDA SPECIAL FEATURE

“With regards to energy generation, we look at clean energy – we only fund renewable, clean energies. We also plan to upgrade existing plants with better equipment to make them more efficient, and considering ways to reduce the public electricity bill through efficient consumption and generation. With the aim of increasing access to electricity in remote areas, the bank has nurtured relationships with solar power companies to roll out a program to set up mini electricity grids and solar home solutions. To expedite the roll-out and reach a maximum number of households, BRD will also partner with commercial banks, micro-finance institutions, and SACCOs.

Projects The major projects include an 80 MW peat-to-power plant that is being co-financed by BRD and other international lenders. Signed off in November 2016, the project will cost US$ 385 million and take three years (starting January 2017) to complete. BRD also financed several hydropower projects: Rwanda Mountain Tea has Giciye I and II projects, with a combined capacity of 8.5 MW. Another one is planned. Novel Energy, which is involved both in biomass (70 KW) and hydropower (0.5 MW) energy generation with a 380 KW hydro plant in Musanze. Energikotel owns five smaller hydro-power plants, one of which, a 2.2 MW plant in Rubavu, is being rehabilitated and upgraded with support from BRD. The bank is also analysing two other projects of the same promoter (off-grid, but soon to be added to the grid) with a combined capacity of 3.2 MW. Currently, the country produces 190.8 MW of electricity, and the installed generation capacity has almost doubled since 2010. As a result of the government’s Electricity Access Rollout Programme (EARP) and related initiatives which essentially target more rural areas, electricity access in Rwanda is growing rapidly. 27% of the population now has access to electricity (24.3% on-grid, 2.7% off-grid).

BRD has nurtured relationships with solar power companies to roll out a program to set up mini electricity grids and solar home solutions www.hope-mag.com

Statistics indicate that electricity access increased from about 160,000 households in 2012 to 570,000 in February 2016, which means an average of 82,000 new households connected to the grid annually for the past five years

AIRTEL RWANDA SPECIAL FEATURE

Airtel Rwanda

Staff join Kayonza residents in Umuganda fKigali f Rwanda. Saturday, July 24th, 2017. Airtel Rwanda staff today joined residents of Kayonza District, Mukarange Sector in the monthly Umuganda exercise.

he Airtel team together with the residents cleaned and cleared the garbage points in the area. Among other exercises were clearing land where a house for one of the vulnerable families in the community will be built. Airtel Rwanda also donated cleaning tools including hoes,

shovels, slashes, rakes among others to the local community. Other donations were scholastic materials donated to the kindergarten school known as “Irerero” as well as iron sheets to 20 vulnerable families. Speaking after Umuganda, Airtel Rwanda Managing Director, Michael Adjei pledged to continue the practice to not only

Michael Adjei Airtel Managing Director participating in the Umuganda 38

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contribute to an environmentally clean country but to also strengthen community engagement as well as support the country’s development programs of which Umuganda is among. In his remarks, he said, “The Airtel family is more than grateful to participate in Umuganda together with the residents of Mukarange Sector.

AIRTEL RWANDA SPECIAL FEATURE

Airtel Staff at Umuganda clear the ground where a house for one of the vulnerable resident's house will be built

We shall continue this practice not only in Kayonza but the entire country as well.” The Vice Mayor for Kayonza Jean Damascene Harerimana spoke on behalf of Mukarange/ Kayonza residents thanked Airtel for the gesture and donation to the community. He said, “We thank Airtel for the heartfelt contribution to Mukarange Sector and

for joining hands with us in this month’s Umuganda. We hope that this practice will continue from month to month.” Umuganda is a mandatory community service carried out in Rwanda every last Saturday of the month from 0800hs to 1100hrs intended to build community involvement and strengthen national development programs

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 353 million customers across its operations at the end of January 2016 To know more please visit,

www.airtel.com Murasira Eugene the beneficiary of the house to be built www.hope-mag.com

Marriott Hotel Exterior

Marriott Hotel Interior

Ubumwe Grand Plaza Interior

Strawtec Warehouse

Ubumwe Grand Plaza Exterior

Ocir-Cafe Gikondo, B.P. 323, Kigali, Fax: +250 500058, Tel: +250788 304181, Website: www.roko.com

RWANDA DECIDES

Effectiveness and efficiency of institutions Rwanda ranks as the world’s top performer as it relates to anti-corruption policy reforms. In 2016, 87% of the population reported not having witnessed any form of corruption. The decentralization programme hasbeen reinforced and budget allocations to localgovernments have increased over threefoldover the last 7 years, thus contributing to fast-tracking development for the benefit of the population. Rwanda is ranked as the 2nd easiest place to do business in Africa, and the 7th most efficient government globally. There is a significant increase in home-grown solutions programmes, thus improving the social welfare.

Special groups Capacities and structures have been developed and strengthened for special categories of the population including: women, youth, the private sector, people

with disabilities, faith-based organizations (FBOs), Media, cooperative societies and non-governmental organizations. This has increased their participation in promoting socioeconomic development. Over the next seven years, RPF-INKOTANYI will continue building upon its political programme to fasttrack sustainable development for the benefit of the Rwandan people. More efforts will also be made to turn the Rwandan people into capable and selfreliant citizens harboring the hope for life and upholding their own dignity and determined more than ever to protect our hard-won gains. Let us all work together towards making Rwanda a stable and wealthy nation whose citizens are able to enjoy better life The RPF-INKOTANYI is committed to strengthening Good Governance and Justice as a pillar of inclusive development. In order to attain this objective, the following areas will be the main focus

Unity among Rwandans In order to reinforce the unity of Rwandans with the aim of building a strong and stable Nation, RPF will strengthen efforts to enshrine Rwandan values of: integrity,transparency, fighting injustice and intolerance for corruption among Rwandans in families, schools and the youth. The party will promote unity and reconciliation among Rwandans with a particular emphasis on “NdiUmunyarwanda” programme, “Abarinzib’Igihango” in order to heal the scars from bad history and the genocide against the Tutsi; RPF will focus more efforts on programmesdesigned to fight genocide ideology inRwanda and anywhere else it manifests itself; We will continue strengthening and promoting gender equality, ensuring equal opportunities for all Rwandans whilst fostering the culture of solidarity with vulnerable groups; We will construct a model National Civic education Center for the “Itorerory’Igihugu” and one branch per Province to foster a mindset that accelerates development and national self-reliance.

Testimony Florence Murekatete how the past continues to unite Rwandans countrywide, Mrs Murekatete and her family spent day after day up to their necks in water as they sheltered with hundreds of other Tutsis in the marshes of the Akagera River. A Hutu patrol, among whom she recognised a former school friend, eventually found her, attacked her with machetes and flung her unconscious body into a corpse-filled trench.

Florence Murekatete was 13 when the killing began. Having been mocked by her teachers as a “cockroach”, the pejorative used for Tutsis by majority Hutus, she was already aware of the animosity aimed at her because of her ethnicity.

But she had little idea just how virulent that hatred would be until Hutu militias embarked on one of history’s swiftest slaughters in a bid to rid Rwanda of its Tutsi population. As an estimated 200,000 Hutus joined the butchery

HOPE MAGAZINE JULY ISSUE 77

For Mrs Murekatete, there can be no doubt that Mr Kagame is Rwanda’s saviour, embarking on a policy of reconciliation after the genocide which saw him attempt to heal divisions by banning his people from identifying as either Tutsi or Hutu. “The president and his people saved me, treated me and fed me. I see a man who encouraged perpetrators and victims to forgive each other.”

RWANDA DECIDES

ENSURE STRONG SECURITY ORGANS THAT CONTRIBUTE TO PEACE, SECURITY AND NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT Over the next seven years, the party will strengthen the capacity of all security organs (Armed Forces, Police and NISS) for effective discharge of their functions plus strengthening the security and safetyof people and property in partnership with local communities and security organs. RPF plans to enhance the contribution of Rwanda Defence Force and other security organs in development programmes and projects, especially in the development of secondary cities, industries and major agriculture and livestock projects among others. Also the party will enhance and expand regional and international security partnerships to fight and prevent crossborder crimes, human and drug trafficking and cybercrimes plus reinforcing values and culture of excellence, patriotism, dedication and service while striving for dignity of the nation and putting citizens at the center.

Foreign Affairs and Cooperation RPF plans to strengthen diplomatic and international cooperation to support Rwanda and Africaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s development, strengthen diplomacy and international cooperation to support the promotion of investment, tourism and expansion of the market for products made in Rwanda; The party will strengthen efforts in sensitization of the Rwandan diaspora to promote unity and reconciliation, increase participation in national development programmes, mobilize friends of Rwanda and expand services delivered to the diaspora community It will put in place mechanisms to raise awareness of Rwandaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s home-grown solutions locally and internationally to support development and strive for unity of Africans and development of the continent based on cooperation and trade aimed at positioning Africa internationally and increasing its self-reliance; More emphasis will be put into increasing efforts in contributing to peace and security in Africa and

globally while ensuring that Rwandan Peacekeepers maintain a culture of excellence in humanitarian and peacekeeping activities.

Justice Under justice, the party will strengthen and continue to improve the legal framework (laws) that supports and accelerates the national development agenda while ensuring effective and reliable institutions plus putting in place modern and culturally-sensitive laws that promote and support living in harmony in families and among Rwandans in general. Also in the next seven years, RPF will strengthen efforts to prevent andfight corruption and punish exemplarythose who are convicted of such crimes. We will strive to eradicate injustice, resolve grievances of citizens and execute court judgments timely. Lastly the party will promote the culture of problemsolving in families and reinforce amicable settlement of disputes using various citizen fora, mediators and Access to Justice Bureaus. Cont'd

p46

President Kagame addressing RDF Command www.hope-mag.com

RWANDA DECIDES

Institutional CapacityBuilding In order to improve capacity building, RPF will reinforce institutional coordination for sustained and accelerated development, will enhance capacities of public institutions and enshrine in them a culture of dedicated service to citizens for fast and effective service delivery. We will achieve this through development of ICT solutions. The party will ensure proper project designs before their implementation, and put in place permanent mechanisms for coordination, monitoring and evaluation. We will build the capacity of the state organs responsible for the audit and management

Improve the functioning of special groups

to fast-track national development and improve social welfare. According to the party, they will promote the culture of self-reliance, teamwork spirit, solidarity and patriotism among Rwandans and developing home-grown solutions to problems facing different categories of our society.

RPF will promote the culture of solidarity and good relations among Rwandans for national self-reliance and sustainable development by encouraging women and youth to continue and increase their participation in national development and governance, striving to create jobs and provide support to their fellow Rwandans. The party plans to build the capacities of cooperatives, media, nongovernmental organizations(NGOs), FBOs, and the private sector todevelop an effective partnership

Last but not least, the party will in the next seven years strengthen the voluntary national service programme (Urugerero) under the national civic education institution (Itoreroryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Igihugu) with the objective of developing the Rwandan youth into citizens who aspire to become self-reliant and hardworking. This will help them to build selfesteem and prepare them to contribute to finding solutions to existing challenges.

of state property, monitoring and evaluation and assessment of effectiveness of institutions.

SOCIAL WELFARE

Students workshop kigali often organizes for students on writing fundable business projects proposals

During the implementation of the 2010-2017 Manifesto, the Government of Rwanda led by RPFINKOTANYI has established the necessary conditions to ensure welfare of all Rwandans. Building on this strong foundation, the next step is to develop a Rwandan with capacity, knowledge, quality standards of living and a stable and secure society. The RPFINKOTANYIâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dedication to this objective is embodied in the Manifesto 2017-2024.

Achievements 2010-2017 In the Education sector, the milestones registered included; introduction of the twelve-year basic education (12YBE) and giving special focus to technical vocational education and training (TVET) programmes were implemented. New classrooms were constructed and old ones rehabilitated while the educational curricula at all levels were

HOPE MAGAZINE JULY ISSUE 77

revised to respond to labor market needs and the number of tertiary institutions increased. In the Health sector, various programmes have been implemented and strengthened including: the community-based health insurance scheme or Mutuelle de SantĂŠ, and accessibility to health care services. Furthermore, the number of nurses and doctors has increased and community health workers (CHWs) were deployed in all villages.

RWANDA DECIDES Child mortality rate has reduced from 76/1,000 births to 50/1,000 while maternal mortality rate has decreased from 476/100,000 live births to 210/100,000. All people living with HIV have access to antiretroviral drugs. Uptake of family planning programmes has increased and a maternity leave insurance scheme has been established to ensure working women get their full salary during the three month maternity leave. Sensitization of the population on hygiene and sanitation has yielded positive results. To further entrench Social Protection interventions; the One Cow per Poor Family Programme (the Girinka Programme) was implemented and 273,331 cows have been distributed; People living in grass thatched houses were supported to live in decent houses and Vision 2020 Umurenge Programme (VUP), aiming at eradicating extreme poverty has been implemented in all the 416 administrative Sectors.

This will be given emphasis from early childhood education and people with disabilities; effective strategies to prevent dropouts from school and working with the private sector to improve the quality of education, build teachersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; capacity and improve the welfare of teachers and ensure equipping of education centers in addition to increasing the number of general education and TVET institutions, promoting use of ICT in education at all levels and increasing the number of centers of excellence in education institutions, including those in the private sector.

A well performing health sector that ensures financial and geographical access to medical services shall further be strengthened, improve nutrition among children and reduce child and maternal mortality; increase the number of general practitioners, specialists, nurses and qualified administrators and put in place model health centers of excellence. For efficiency in the health sector, there will also be focus on disease prevention, family planning, reproductive health education for all ages, especially among the youth and put in place sustainable mechanisms for the protection of vulnerable groups, promote social welfare toward eradicating extreme poverty and build the culture of self-reliance

The number of vulnerable people unable to work who receive direct support has increased from 9,692 to 85.899. Financial services in VUP has disbursed loans to the tune of RWF 25 billion for the benefit of 366,558 people in rural areas. Average life expectancy of Rwandans has risen from 62 years in 2010 to 67 years in 2016. The RPF-INKONTANYI will continue striving for the wellbeing of all Rwandans.

Social welfare targets 2017-2024 The RPF-INKOTANYI will work to develop Rwandans into a capable and skilled people, with quality standards of living and a stable and secure society. The major interventions will involve continued promotion of quality education for all, supporting a knowledge-based economy. Rebuilding Communities Rwanda Defence help in rebuilding Communities

Sports Development in Kigali www.hope-mag.com

MOBISOL RWANDA SPECIAL FEATURE

Some of Mobisol's solar-powered products

Mobisol launches

rent-to-own Solar TV system ffMobisol Rwanda, a leading Germany-based provider of smart high-quality home solar solutions on Wednesday launched its latest product, the solar TV system (STS).

his system consists of a durable polycrystalline solar panel (36W) and a 22’’ flat screen television with all components built in, the first of its kind on the Rwanda market. “This is an all-in-one innovative solution that will allow customers to meet their demands for lighting and edutainment at a competitive price, flexible payment plan and customized bundles; it offers affordability to Rwandans who were not eligible for larger systems on the market,” said Mobisol Rwanda’s chief administrative officer, Joelle Nzambimana. This latest solar innovation from Mobisol comes with an all-integrated system with Pay-as-youGo functionality on the mobile money platforms of MTN and Tigo, and a smart energy feature that delivers up to 10 hours of operation. Guests at the Mobisol solar TV launch

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MOBISOL RWANDA SPECIAL FEATURE

The system is supported by a 3-year warranty with comprehensive customer service, flexible payments of up to 36 months payable by mobile money and a 24/7 connectivity to our backend database. “The whole system fits into one box, and was developed around three keywords: convenience, affordability and innovation,” explained Frida Winkelmann, Business and Customer Strategy Lead at Mobisol Rwanda. “It is an expression of our vision that real electrification goes beyond lighting.” The Mobisol STS was launched in the presence of Emmanuel Kamanzi, the managing director of Energy Development Corporation Limited (EDCL);

The Mobisol STS solar TV system will appeal to millions of Rwandans as it is an environment-friendly and low-energy way of purchasing a television that will impact Rwandan citizen’s lives by affordably electrifying their homes. Mobisol Rwanda offers other systems in two different sizes from 100 to 200Wp for private households and businesses.

Joelle Nzambimana Mobisol CAO ( L), Frida Winkelmann Business & customer strategy lead Sylvie Kayitesi Mobisol Country Manager and Emmanuel Kamanzi EDCL Managing Director (R)

“We support the government’s ambition to electrify 70% and look forward to jointly helping the government and people of Rwanda to achieve sustainable electrification while protecting the environment,” Okello added. Since its humble beginnings in Bugesera three years ago, Mobisol has become the largest provider of rent-to-own off-grid solar solutions in the country, and today counts close to 21,000 households as its customers

Robert Nyamvumba, the director of the energy division in the ministry of infrastructure, representatives of the EU Delegation to Rwanda, the Rwanda Governance Board, the Rwanda Development Bank, the confederation of cooperatives, a cooperative of taxi-moto drivers as well as numerous other guests. “This new product will complement Rwandan citizens in their daily life,” remarked Mobisol’s head of sales and marketing, Ben Okello. “The basic STS is on offer for a down payment of Rwf 19,000 and monthly instalments of only Rwf 10,900. Customers can also opt for the extended package, which also includes 3 bright solar LED lights, a Mobisol solar radio and on-site warranty at a down payment of Rwf 20,000, and monthly instalments of only Rwf 12,000.”

One lucky guest won a solar TV in a raffle draw

www.hope-mag.com

VISION FUND SPECIAL FEATURE

How VisionFund’s small loans helped Twigire group thrive �As one of the biggest micro-finance companies in the country, VisionFund Rwanda’s approach to the business is quite unique: its first concern is for children.

Then came VisionFund, and with just two small loans – Rwf 10,000 in 2014 and Rwf 20,000 last year – Sezirahiga managed to expand his business, buy goats, renovate his house and install electricity, get food on the table every day and educate his children. The Twigire members are a divers lot – some sell clothes or other goods, some have a boutique – but they all have the same experience: thanks to VisionFund they learned to better manage their businesses and money, and the small loans gave them the required boost and their children are thriving

Twigire Group leaders during a meeting

ur goal is to help poor people in Rwanda care for their children,” reads a vision statement on its website, inspired by its origins as a micro-finance program of World Vision. “Our microfinance services enable them to build the foundations they need to bring themselves out of poverty.” A good example of how successful this approach is, can be seen in the Twigire group, an association of 30 people (who among them care for 107 children) living in Kayumbu village in Bugesera district. Most of them had unprofitable subsistence businesses – growing vegetables or fruit, rearing small animals, running a boutique. That changed when the group’s leader, Francois Xavier, became an agent for the Village Savings scheme run by the NGO Care International, which teaches people how to save and then brings in VisionFund to see how to turn the savings into income-generating businesses.

to work with VisionFund Rwanda. Back then, she was a simple tomato seller at the market, and had a hard time to get by. Once the group struck a deal with VisionFund in 2014, Ntamukunzi got a first loan of Rwf 70,000 to expand her business, and after that was repaid, she got another Rwf 50,000 in 2016. Her business thrived, thanks to the training in financial management the Twigire members received The twigire group

That was how Twigire was born in July 2014, and how the lives of most of its members changed for the better. “It changed our members’ mindset,” 37-yearold Francois Xavier explains. “They learned how to generate income from their businesses and not to fear banks.” 45-year-old Marthe Ntamukunzi is one of them. She has four children (one of whom is married) and she also takes care of her granddaughter and mother-in-law. Yet she manages it quite fine, something that would have been unthinkable a few years ago, before Twigire started Marthe’s livestock 54

from VisionFund. Not only did she expand her business with goats, cows and bananas, she has also bought a plot and can today easily buy food and pay the school fees for her children, as well as medical insurance. Laurent Sezirahiga has a similar story. The 40-year-old husband and father, who takes care of his own two children and three from relatives, hardly earned a living with his fruit business.

HOPE MAGAZINE JULY ISSUE 77

RWANDA REVENUE AUTHORITY SPECIAL FEATURE

HOPE MAGAZINE JULY ISSUE 77

RWANDA REVENUE AUTHORITY SPECIAL FEATURE