Addressing a press conference attended by shareholders and key stakeholders on Thursday, March 27, 2025, BPR Bank Rwanda Managing Director Patience Mutesi said the impressive profit growth was driven by a 23% increase in net interest income, which rose to Frw80.3 billion.
The bank also recorded a 13% rise in customer deposits, reaching Frw757.1 billion, while net loans and advances increased by 8% to Frw620.6 billion. Total assets grew to Frw971.8 billion, demonstrating strong financial stability.
'Our financial results reaffirm our strong market position,' said the MD. 'Profit after tax of Frw29.7 billion represents robust growth across our business segments. This performance was driven by a 23% increase in net interest income, growth in our SME lending portfolio, and investments in key earning assets.'
Mutesi further noted that the bank has been at the forefront of digital banking advancements, successfully rolling out a Unified Omni-channel banking platform that integrates mobile, internet, and USSD banking to enhance customer experience.
Additionally, the bank has strengthened its sustainability agenda through green finance initiatives, supported by partnerships such as a $40 million (Frw53.8 billion) financing package from the International Finance Corporation (IFC) to enhance SME lending and support Rwanda's economic diversification.
As part of its commitment to youth empowerment and entrepreneurship, the bank launched the BPR Igire Alumni Club, which has supported over 1,000 young entrepreneurs, with 40 businesses receiving seed capital.
Owing to its strong performance, the bank has proposed a 13.7% dividend payout to shareholders, subject to approval at the upcoming Annual General Meeting (AGM).
Speaking on the proposed dividend payout, George Rubagumya, Chairman of the Board of Directors, stated, 'From a shareholder perspective, our solid financial performance has enabled the Board to propose a dividend payout of 13.7% of profit after tax for approval at the AGM. We have always believed in delivering consistent returns to our shareholders while retaining sufficient capital for future investments.'
One of the key milestones the bank celebrated in 2024 was its 50th anniversary, marking five decades of banking excellence in Rwanda. The milestone was commemorated with multiple stakeholder engagements, culminating in a grand gala scheduled for August 4, 2024.
Looking ahead, the bank affirmed that it remains committed to sustained growth, financial innovation, and economic impact through its strong financial foundation, digital transformation, and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) initiatives.
Wycliffe Nyamasege
