The state-run institution currently manages assets worth over Frw 3.5 trillion (approximately $2.5 billion), with a strategic focus on channeling the resources into sectors that drive economic growth, social impact, and long-term returns.
Speaking to the Rwandan diaspora during the Rwanda Convention 2025 held in Texas, USA, on July 5, Louise Kanyonga, Deputy CEO of the Rwanda Development Board (RDB), emphasised RSSB's dual mission, social protection and nation-aligned investments, and highlighted key opportunities available both in Rwanda and abroad.
'RSSB is truly owned by every single Rwandan,' said Kanyonga. 'We manage assets of about $2.5 billion across all the different asset classes... we invest towards the transformation of the country.'
A highlight of RSSB's efforts is Ejo Heza, the national long-term savings scheme now being actively marketed to the diaspora. Designed for both informal sector workers and Rwandans living abroad, Ejo Heza offers an impressive 10â€"11% annual return, compounded over time.
'If you want to make sure you're securing a long-term financial future for your loved ones and families back home, I really encourage you to learn more about Ejo Heza,' said Kanyonga.
'It's a super attractive opportunity for you. You too can save and watch your savings grow over time," she added.
The scheme not only ensures retirement security, but also reinforces financial inclusion in a country where most of the population works outside the formal economy.
Vision City II and Heza Estate
In real estate, RSSB continues to lead the market as Rwanda's largest developer. Two major housing projects were spotlighted at the convention:
Vision City II, set to begin construction in September 2025, will be three times larger than the first phase, featuring a diverse range of villas, apartments, and townhouses.
'The residential units you have in Vision City I are almost sold out… We're starting the second phase in September,' Kanyonga confirmed.
Heza Estate, another upcoming development, will cater to the middle-income segment with approximately 500 units priced from $70,000. The estate will include both apartments and standalone homes, offering options for homeowners and investors alike.
'Please check it out at the stand. Pricing is very competitive and attractive… It's a really exciting opportunity,' she said.
SME financing
Kanyonga also announced the creation of a new $30 million SME fund, aimed at unlocking long-term capital for small and medium-sized enterprises. The fund is expected to grow to $100 million, with regulatory clearance anticipated by August 2025.
'This SME fund is really for you,' she told diaspora entrepreneurs. 'We want to be exposed to the real economy and actually finance real businesses.'
Unlike commercial bank loans, which can be expensive and short-term, the RSSB fund will offer patient capital, including equity and flexible financing terms tailored to the realities of local businesses.
Strategic sector investments
RSSB is already firmly embedded in several of Rwanda's most strategic and high-impact sectors, according to Kanyonga. In healthcare, the institution manages Mutuelle de Santé, the national health insurance program that now covers advanced medical services such as kidney transplants and cancer treatment, a major step toward reducing the country's reliance on outbound medical referrals.
In the realm of innovation, RSSB has positioned itself as a forward-thinking investor, having been an early backer of Zipline, the drone delivery company revolutionising medical logistics across Rwanda. It has also directed capital into pharmaceutical manufacturing, further strengthening the country's healthcare self-sufficiency.
RSSB is also making major contributions to hospitality and tourism, with investments in landmark assets such as the Kigali Convention Centre, the newly upgraded Kigali Golf Club, and hospitality infrastructure around Akagera National Park, bolstering both domestic and international tourism.
Beyond Rwanda's borders, the institution is participating in pan-African investment through the $250 million Buranga Fund, a joint venture with the Qatar Investment Authority, which is already supporting Rwandan companies and eyeing broader regional opportunities.
Invest, don't just remit
Closing her remarks, Kanyonga urged the diaspora to move beyond remittances and take part in long-term investment.
'Let's think about moving beyond just remittances to actually investing actively in the economy. There's so much you can do,' she said. 'Every single franc we invest [should] bring in three times the productivity.'
She also encouraged young professionals abroad to consider careers with RSSB, which operates a digital factory employing up to 60 Rwandans and building high-impact tools in-house.
'We're building amazing products and services… 11 million Rwandans are our clients directly because of a service we offer,' she added.
Wycliffe Nyamasege
