Murangwa revealed that in the 2024 financial year, BPR Bank Rwanda Plc's loan portfolio reached Frw 666 billion, reflecting an annual growth of 6%. This underscores the bank's continued commitment to advancing Rwanda's economic development.
As the bank celebrated its 50th anniversary, Minister Murangwa described the journey as transformative, emphasizing the bank's role in shaping the country's financial landscape.
He noted that BPR Bank Rwanda Plc has provided more than Frw 53 billion to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), with 25% of that allocated to women entrepreneurs through initiatives like Ikamba.
'This program helps women entrepreneurs access capital and build their capacity,' Minister Murangwa said.
The bank's impact extends beyond economic support. It plays a vital role in educating the nation through its Igire Initiative, which currently supports 840 young people, with 776 already having graduated from the program.
Minister Murangwa called on the bank to continue pioneering development-focused projects and innovations in the financial sector.
He emphasized the importance of creating an inclusive financial system and supporting environmentally sustainable projects, noting, 'This will lead us to the growth of an inclusive financial sector for all Rwandans and foster development that positively impacts the country, particularly in reducing poverty, which is our primary shared goal.'
Looking ahead, the Minister said, 'The next 50 years should be characterized by even greater innovation, impact, and transformation for Rwandans, the region, and at the international level.'
Patience Mutesi, BPR Bank Rwanda Plc's Managing Director, expressed the bank's deep appreciation for its customers. 'We place great importance on listening to our customers. To all our customers wherever you are, thank you very much for trusting us and allowing us to partner with you in your investments,' she stated.
The bank has expanded its reach, now operating 73 branches, 2,242 agents, and 59 ATMs. BPR Bank Rwanda Plc's growth is evident in its continued involvement in large-scale projects, including financing the construction of Bugesera International Airport, where it became the first local bank to provide such financing in 2017.
Mutesi also highlighted the bank's recent financing efforts, including a consortium of financial institutions in Rwanda providing USD 322 million in guarantees for projects such as those led by UMCJV Ltd. Other initiatives include supporting food security through Africa Improved Foods and partnerships aimed at addressing climate change impacts and promoting renewable energy.
Additionally, the bank is committed to assisting small entrepreneurs by providing capital, investment training, and a particular focus on women entrepreneurs.
Rubagumya George, Chairman of the Board of Directors of BPR Bank Rwanda Plc, emphasized the bank's remarkable growth, stating that it is now in a position to support any project aimed at national development.
Paul Russo, CEO of KCB Group Ltd, reaffirmed their ongoing commitment to delivering excellent services, advancing technology, collaborating with the government, and contributing to national development.
Customer testimonials underscored the bank's positive impact. Louis Nsengiyumva, the bank's first-ever customer who opened an account in 1975, shared how BPR Bank Rwanda Plc helped him safeguard his finances, reducing the risk of losing money that was traditionally kept at home.
Kabahizi Théoneste, representing Rwanda Agribusiness Supporters and Veterinary Consulting Services (RABSCO Ltd), also praised the bank, stating, 'Fifty years of BPR Bank Rwanda Plc is a great journey. You cannot grow without working with a bankâ€"you need it, you work well with it, you repay well, it grows, and you grow too. Without using a bank, it would be impossible to undertake major projects.'
Queen Kalimpinya, another client, commended the bank for its commitment to promoting women and girls, urging others to embrace financial institutions.
'Supporting women and girls shows that this is truly a people's bankâ€"a bank we can identify with. It's a bank that, when you think about your goals in life and what you want to achieve, you see it is aligned with your aspirations,' she said.
BPR Bank Rwanda Plc has pledged to continue offering excellent services in both public and private sector investment, as well as providing payment and savings solutions for its customers.
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