A new collaboration between the East African Development Bank (EADB) and UN Rwanda is set to strengthen Rwanda’s small and medium enterprises (SMEs), with a particular emphasis on supporting youth and women-led businesses.
The agreement, formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in Kigali, underscores a shared effort to tackle key challenges that have continued to hinder SME growth. Among these are limited access to finance, gaps in skills development, and restricted market opportunities.
By bringing together EADB’s financial capabilities and the UN’s technical expertise and coordination role, the partnership seeks to roll out tailored financing options, enhance entrepreneurial capacity, and foster innovation. The initiative is closely aligned with Rwanda’s national development agenda and is expected to stimulate job creation and inclusive economic growth across sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and commerce.
During the signing ceremony, Bernard Mono pointed to the value of the collaboration:
“We are creating a more holistic support system for SMEs by combining financial and technical expertise.”
“This collaboration will expand access to finance and support innovation, especially for youth and women-led enterprises.”
Fatmata Lovetta Sesay also emphasized the broader significance of the initiative:
“This MoU is a shared commitment to unlocking the potential of SMEs, youth, and women entrepreneurs.”
“It will help address barriers to finance, skills, and markets while driving inclusive economic growth.”
Implementation of the partnership will be guided by a structured framework, including a joint steering committee and a technical working group to ensure effective coordination and measurable outcomes. With SMEs playing a central role in Rwanda’s economy, the initiative represents a key step toward expanding economic opportunities and building a more resilient and inclusive future.
CABN Staff Writer