The event served as a platform to recognize their role in achieving Rwanda's National Strategy for Transformation (NST2) and Vision 2050.
Despite remarkable progress, women in business still encounter obstacles. Many struggle with societal perceptions that limit them to small-scale enterprises, while others face difficulties in accessing financing and engaging in international trade.
Addressing these challenges requires collaboration between men and women, alongside strong government intervention. Jeanne Francoise Mubiligi, Chairperson of the Private Sector Federation (PSF), commended the resilience and innovation of Rwandan women.
'We celebrate their resilience, innovation, and willing commitment to driving economic transformation in our country. Women-owned businesses now make up 42% of all enterprises in Rwanda, a remarkable achievement that speaks to their strength and determination,' she said.
Mubiligi emphasized that progress is not just about numbers but about the real impact of women-led businesses on communities.
'This represents real women whose businesses are creating jobs, transforming communities, and inspiring the next generation. This has been fueled by the government's strong commitment to gender equality, financial inclusion, and various initiatives supported by partners, including the PSF Specialized Cluster,' she said.
She also urged women to build partnerships at all levels, stating that collaboration among business owners is crucial for sustained success. Women entrepreneurs were encouraged to support each other by promoting locally made products.
Rose Kayitesi, a Kigali-based businesswoman specializing in organic products and cleaning services, shared her journey. 'I started with only four products but gradually expanded to over ten. My secret was working with others and fostering cooperation among female entrepreneurs,' she said.
Reflecting on Rwanda's progress in gender equality, Silas Ngayaboshya, Director of Gender Equality and Women's Empowerment at the Ministry of Gender and Family Promotion (MIGEPROF), highlighted the country's achievements over the decades.
'In Rwanda, women have reached remarkable milestones. Over the past 30 years since the country's liberation, we have seen extraordinary progress in leadership, the economy, education, and business,' he noted.
However, Ngayaboshya stressed that true empowerment must go beyond financial independence to include decision-making within households. 'While we have made significant progress, we are not yet where we aspire to be,' he stated.
Cultural norms still restrict many women from managing their own earnings freely, limiting their economic participation.
Ngayaboshya also called for greater inclusion of women in male-dominated industries such as transportation, mining, and technology. Additionally, he addressed gender disparities in domestic responsibilities, emphasizing the need for shared household duties.
'Shared responsibility is fundamental to gender equality. Women should have the opportunity to work and run businesses while ensuring children's needs are met. However, we must move away from the belief that childcare is solely a woman's duty,' he said.
To further advance gender equality, Rwanda has introduced a National Transformative Strategy that encourages men and boys to take an active role in supporting women's empowerment.
This initiative aims to foster inclusivity and shared responsibility in the journey toward gender equity. As Rwanda continues on its path of economic transformation, women entrepreneurs remain at the forefront, driving change, overcoming barriers, and shaping the nation's future.
IGIHE
Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/rwandan-women-entrepreneurs-push-for-progress-amid-challenges
