The Development Bank of Rwanda (BRD) has officially launched a new loan program aimed at supporting farmers, livestock keepers, youth, women, and small business owners through SACCO cooperatives across the country.
The national launch took place in Nyamagabe District at Ishema SACCO, which has more than 180,000 members.
Among the new products introduced is the “Kataza” loan, designed for young farmers, livestock keepers, tourism operators, and hospitality businesses. The loan offers interest rates not exceeding 9%, with repayment terms based on the borrower’s project capacity. It mainly targets people under 35 years old, with 80% of beneficiaries expected to be youth and women.
Another product, “Iganze Muhinzi Mworozi,” targets farmers and livestock keepers in all categories, offering affordable interest rates and long repayment periods depending on the project.
One of the beneficiaries, 25-year-old Mukayiranga Josiane from Buruhukiro Sector in Nyamagabe District, said the loan transformed her farming business. Before receiving support through the Kataza program in February, she employed only three workers. She now has 17 permanent employees and has expanded wheat seed production from 10 kilograms to 200 kilograms at a time.
“I’m now making real progress and hope to become a role model in farming in my community,” she said.
BRD Managing Director Stella Rusine Nteziryayo said the bank is committed to expanding access to affordable financial services through close collaboration with SACCOs.
The program launched at Ishema SACCO will distribute more than RWF 1.4 billion in loans, including RWF 500 million under Kataza and RWF 940 million under Iganze Muhinzi Mworozi. So far, 40% of the targeted beneficiaries have already received funding.
