MARCH - APRIL 2018 ISSUE 85 www.hope-mag.com TELLING RWANDA’S STORY MAGAZINE
First BK Group Financial Report shows a company stronger than ever
In this Issue
CONTRIBUTORS March-April 2018 Issue 85
HOPE TEAM Iradukunda Anime Rumanzi Abraham PUBLISHED BY HOPE HOLDINGS LTD COPYRIGHT 2013 Allan Migadde Keith Ntagozera Saul Butera ADVERTISING & GENERAL INQUIRIES Reserved by Hope Magazine, a monthly Shema Ignace Magazine published by HOPE HOLDINGS Bob Thuku Kobusingye Bonitah P.O. Box 6176 Kigali-Rwanda Sindayirwanya Isabelle LIMITED. All rights reserved. Erwin Winkler Manzi Joseph +250 788 524189 / 788 404138 Rebero Daniel The opinions expressed in the magazine Himbana Alexandre Mbanda Claude DESIGN & LAYOUT [email protected] are not necessarily those of the editors Ishimwe Yvonne Mucyo Rodrigue Dani K. www.hope-mag.com and publishers of Hope Magazine.
ADVERTISERS CONTENTS MTN Rwanda 1
BPR ATlas Mara Group 2
Airtel Tigo Rwanda 3
Bourbon Coffee 4
Mobisol Limited 5 Davis and Shirtliff 8 14 BRALIRWA Limited 9 SERENA HOTEL
Serena Hotels & Resorts 15
Airtel Rwanda 16-17 7 BANK OF KIGALI At 50 years young, BK is just entering its golden age UAP Group Rwanda 19 10 BK GROUP Financial Report shows Cogebanque Rwanda 22 21 a company stronger than ever Safintra Limited 23 MTN RWANDA 12 COGEBANQUE and cycling, Akagera Business Group 24-25 a partnership made in heaven
Galaxy Hotel 26 14 KIGALI SERENA HOTEL staffs Pay tribute to Genocide victims Vision Fund Rwanda 27 18 UAP RWANDA holds commemoration KCB Bank Rwanda 29 discussions for 24th Kwibuka Engen Rwanda Limited 33 20 MTN RWANDA partners with The Court Boutique Hotel 35 12 32 RwandaOnline to promote Irembo COGEBANQUE ACCESS BANK self-service Sinotruk Rwanda Limited 39 21 MTN RWANDA launches MoMo Pay Herocean Enterprise Ltd. 40 to improve electronic payment Development Bank of Rwanda 41 28 KCB BANK commemorates with MTN Rwanda 43 donations to Muhazi Genocide Memorial and Avega Health Centre WAKA Fitness Group 45 36 30 KENYAN WOMEN Celebrate Women’s The Arts & Gimco Real Estate 46 CWNK Day with disadvantaged girls Sinotruk Rwanda Limited 47 38 SINOTRUK RWANDA 32 ACCESS BANK encourage women BK Techouse 48 to share ideas
6 HOPE MARCH-APRIL ISSUE 85 Editorial
VISIT HOPE WEBSITE www.hope-mag.com EDITOR'S WORD
At 50 years young, COVER First BK Group Financial Report shows a company BK is just entering stronger than ever its golden age
HIGHLIGHTS 2017 has been a historic year for Bank of Kigali, and for more “In order to cherish the Rwandan identity, we should reason than one. In the first place, the financial services company promote unity and reconciliation... “We have an obligation celebrated its Golden Jubilee, and that in itself is no mean feat, to continue protecting our peaceful country and sustain especially given Rwanda’s turbulent history during those 50 years. achievements already attained by our people... "We should root out genocide ideologies to not let this tragedy happen again.., “This is a new history Rwanda is building, we have to pass it onto our descendants and ndeed, in the early years of BK, the The bank registered a 12.5% increase of the younger generation... political environment in the country its net income, not least thanks to the fact was for from stable, and shortly after that it still has a lot of appeal, as evidenced UAP RWANDA 18 the bank celebrated its 25 years , by an increase in both its retail customers Rwanda went through its darkest days and corporate clients. Iwith the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsis. The second reason why 2017 was a special Yet not only did BK get back to its year for Bank of Kigali is that it branched feet rapidly, as one of only a handful out into other sectors. Indeed, the 2017 operational banks in the second half of financial report was the first report of the the 1990s, it played a pivotal role in helping BK Group, which consists of Bank of Kigali, other companies to get going and provided BK General Insurance, and BK TechHouse. a safe haven for the many Rwandans who In the first place, this is reassuring for the returned to the country, willing to invest. company’s shareholders, as shocks in one Thus, BK played a significant role in sector (just remember the global financial the post-Genocide reconstruction and crisis of 2008) can be absorbed by the kickstarting of the economy. 32 other companies in the group. KCB BANK RWANDA And once it became clear that Rwanda wasn’t the failed state that many Secondly, it allows each of the companies international observers feared it would to offer more comprehensive services than 34 for a mouth- watering experience RIDERS LOUNGE become, but instead nothing short of they would be able to do on their own. For instance, BK TecHouse has developed the 36 CWNK holds ‘Ishyaka’ fundraising gala dinner an economic miracle thanks to the government’s sound policies, BK faced Urubuto school management system, the 38 SINOTRUK RWANDA bringing superior Chinese the challenge of cutthroat competition in most comprehensive version of which also truck technology to the heart of Africa the financial sector due to regional and comes with an advantageous insurance international banks flocking to the market. and bank accounts offer. 42 MTN RWANDA STAFF remember Genocide victims in Nyarubuye Yet BK weathered the storm, and as its So it is clear that while Bank of Kigali has every reason to be satisfied about the past 44 YEGOMOTO commemorates Genocide financial report for 2017 shows, has been more than able to hold its own against the half century, it seems that the company’s with visit to a moto driver/survivor bigger multinational competitors. golden age is only just beginning.
Hope Magazine assume no liability for error or omissions in this Erwin Winkler publication. All Advertisements are taken in good faith, opinions and views contained herein are not necessarily those of the Publisher. All copyrights and trademarks are recognized. No We appreciate your feedback. Please keep sending part of this publication or contents thereof may be reproduced, more on [email protected] or visit www.hope-mag.com, stored in retrieval system or transmitted in any form without to post your comment on any published story. written permission by Hope Magazine. Exemption is hereby We shall pick it and respond to you asap! granted for extracts with the purpose of fair review. © 2013
www.hope-mag.com 7
Banking BANK OF KIGALI SPECIAL FEATURE First BK Group Financial Report shows a company stronger than ever
“2017 was an important milestone for the bank, ff The BK Group has marking its 50th anniversary,” said Diane Karusisi, presented its report for CEO of the BK Group. “This was ushered in with the 2017 financial year, great celebration as the bank grew into a financial during which it reported group which includes an insurance arm, BK General Insurance, and an innovative arm, BK a net income of Rwf 23.3 TechHouse. billion, an increase of 12.5% year-on-year (Y-o-Y) We are very pleased to publish our results indicating growth performance across all key metrics. This has been another great year for the his was the debut report of BK as a group, bank: our net income grew by 12% Y-o-Y and total as it transformed into a broad group of assets by 13.9%. We managed to grow our net loan companies including BK bank, BK General Diane Karusisi CEO of the BK Group book to Rwf 471.7 billion, a 22.3% increase Y-o-Y.” Insurance and BK TecHouse. The report showed that the total assets Increased by By 31st December 2017, the bank served over T13.9% Y-o-Y to Rwf 727.2 billion, and net loans increase of 34.6% Y-o-Y, significantly impacted 257,000 retail customers and 24,000 corporate and advances increased by 22.3% Y-o-Y to Rwf by an increase in non-interest income. Net fees clients, compared to the previous year when they 471.7 billion. and commission income increased by 23.8% served 244,000 retail customers and 23,000 Y-o-Y to Rwf 16.6 billion, and the total operating corporate clients. Retail clients’ balances and The group realised a net Interest income increase income was Rwf 92.5 billion, up 20.2% Y-o-Y. Total deposits reached Rwf 113.7 billion while the of 14.7% Y-o-Y to Rwf 63.9 billion, while net non- operating costs also increased by 14.6% Y-o-Y corporate clients’ balances and deposits were interest income amounted to Rwf 28.6 billion, an to Rwf 41.8 billion. Rwf 240.8 billion.
L-R Regis Rugemanshuro CEO BK TecHouse Alex Bahizi CEO BK Insurance, Diane Karusisi CEO BK Group Desire Rumanyika Chief Operating Officer BK Vincent Gatete Chief Commercial Officer BK
10 HOPE MARCH-APRIL ISSUE 85 BANK OF KIGALI SPECIAL FEATURE
Popularising insurance and “The need to be incurred has seen us come As for that banking arm of the group, its sight is up with affordable policies for all and this firmly set on the future with more inclusivity and tech solutions ensures our mutual consistent growth and the move towards a cashless economy with mobile BK General Insurance achieved Rwf 4.5b worth benefit with our clients” said Alex Bahizi, BK banking services soon to be launched. of premiums with only Rwf 500m going to settling General Insurance’s Managing Director. claims which represents 29% of the whole. Dividend pay-out The insurance arm of the group also wants to It is clear that, while Bank of Kigali has always use the renown of the ‘Bank of Kigali’ brand been a prosperous company, the widening of its name to popularise insurance, and create activities has only made it more attractive and, policies friendly to the clients’ wallets while indeed, profitable. That is why at the group’s addressing difficult moments in life. In the annual general meeting, which will be held on 18th near future, BK General Insurance will also May in Kigali, the Board will propose a dividend provide life and education insurance while pay-out of 40% of the bank’s net income. staying affordable for all. In the meantime, it already has a policy costing as low as Rwf This translates into an annual dividend of 600 per month targeting group insurance. approximately Rwf 13.87 per share, or an approximately 4.7% dividend yield based BK TecHouse, for its part, has in its short time on the current share price of Rwf 295. ”Our of existence focused on big issues such as shareholders and investors will be happy with education, smart farming and real estate. the sustainability of the bank’s results and financial
Bank of Kigali Head Office Journalists at the presentation of the financial results
Its Urubuto Education System, for result,” commented the board chairman of the BK example, provides a comprehensive school Group, Marc Holtzman. “The bank has diversified the Board will management solution aligned with the BK its growth by venturing into other finance-related TecHouse concept of ‘smart school and services in line with the universal financial services propose a dividend pay- cashless campuses.’ model.” out of 40% of the bank’s In January, the company co-organised a One area of concern however is the low appetite robotics camp in which American experts among the public to invest in the Rwanda Stock net income. This translates came to Kigali to train secondary school Exchange (RSE), on which the BK Group is into an annual divid-end of students on making and programming farm listed. To remedy this, the company is planning robots. As the robots were only models, a sensitisation campaign to underscore the approximately Rwf 13.87 per the journey is still long but the first steps importance, and profitability, of collective to a Rwandan robotics industry to tackle investment in the capital market. share, or an approximately socioeconomic problems have been made. A critical analysis of the numbers places the group 4.7% dividend yield based In real estate, BK TecHouse has developed as one of the strongest and most promising stock on the current share property-management software in a package on the RSE. The diversity in business, a good that also ties in the bank of the BK Group to and wide asset base and innovative and forward- price of Rwf 295. offer interesting mortgage packages. looking leadership should assure any investor of good returns.
Innovation - Speed - Agility
www.hope-mag.com 11 Sports COGEBANQUE SPECIAL FEATURE Cogebanque and cycling a partnership made in heaven
Riders pose with Cogebanque delegates before race kick off
ff If anything symbolises Rwanda’s transformation over the past decades, it must be cycling. From a poorly organised and cash-strapped organisation, the Rwanda Cycling Federation (Ferwacy) has risen like a phoenix to become a strong institution capable of managing major events such as the Tour of Rwanda, which in recent years has attracted global participants and media attention.
eam Rwanda has also produced Areruya, by the way, cyclists who are head-hunted by matured as a cyclist international cycling teams, and at the club Les Amis who have been able to win major Sportifs, which races on the continent and in is sponsored by Teven such renowned events as the Giro Cogebanque. d’Italia (Tour of Italy). Cogebanque's While this is of course in the first place Foremost among them is Cogebanque, Huye branch Today, Rwanda is ranked by the the result of the vision, organisation which is a long-time sponsor of Ferwacy, manager International Cycling Union (UCI) as the and hard work within Ferwacy, what is be it through the now international Tour rewards one of the riders" second best cycling nation in Africa, and also important is the support of partners of Rwanda, or the more local Rwanda Joseph Areruya is the first Rwandan to who believed in the project from the Cycling Cup, which aims at grooming be named best African cyclist. beginning. local cycling clubs and riders.
12 HOPE MARCH-APRIL ISSUE 85 COGEBANQUE SPECIAL FEATURE
It is no surprise therefore that Cogebanque is again the main sponsor of the Rwanda Cycling Cup 2018 (together with Skol), which kicked off recently with the Memorial Lambert Byemayire, and will continue until December with ten more races around the country. It is the fourth edition of the Rwanda Cycling Cup, and for the fourth time, Cogebanque is one of the main sponsors.
The Business Development Director of Cogebanque, Montfort Mujyambere, said it is a pleasure for the bank to partner with Ferwacy again. “It’s the fourth partnership between Cogebanque and Ferwacy. As a bank we want to do something for Business Development Director of Cogebanque, Montfort Mujyambere with Ferwacy society, and cycling has become a flagbearer for the president Aimable Bayingana and a representative of Skol at the presentation of the Rwanda country and we’re proud to be part of that,” he said. Cycling Cup
That was echoed by George Ndizihiwe, the Head of Branches at Cogebanque, who was in Huye together with thousands of spectators to witness Rwanda Cycling Cup 2018 the arrival of the Memorial Lambert Byemayire. 24/03 Memorial Lambert Byemayire, Kigali - Huye “There is a lot of enthusiasm, because cycling in Rwanda has really made great strides,” he said. 19/05 Farmers Circuit Kayonza - Gicumbi 09/06 Race to remember “And when you say cycling, you say Cogebanque as we are the biggest sponsor of the sport with the 23/06 National Championships ITT/Nyamata Tour of Rwanda and the Cycling Cup. So for us it’s 24/06 National Championships Road race a great honour, as Rwandan cycling is becoming very successful on the continent and even globally.” 07/07 Race for Culture Nyanza Rwamagana “It’s also an opportunity for us to get closer to our 21-22 Tour of Rwanda preparation races customers, and to show that Cogebanque is more than banking, it’s a company that cares about 06/10 Kivu Race Musanze - Rubavu society and the wellbeing of Rwandans,” he added. 28/10 Karongi Challenge Karongi circuit 10/11 Kigali Kigali - Musanze - Muhanga The races that constitute the Rwanda Cycling Cup, which take place all around the country, also 15/12 Rwanda Cycling Cup Closing race, Kigali Circuit constitute a great platform for Cogebanque to inform a broad audience about its products, especially some that are not yet very well known. “As the Cup goes around the country, Cogebanque will be informing the public about its products, notably agency banking, the new mobile wallet Coge mBank and our different cards,” Mujyambere said.
“Cogebanque is in full expansion,” the Head of Branches Ndizihiwe remarked in Huye. “We have just moved into our new headquarters, which is a significant step. But we expand everywhere: in addition to our 25 branches, we also have a growing network of agents who offer a range of services, so you don’t always have to go all the way to the branch.”
“We are also expanding our digital platforms, with the new Coge mBank e-wallet, which allows people to manage their accounts without going to the bank at all,” he said. And Cogebanque is dedicated to support cycling at all levels, and not only through Ferwacy, Montfort Mujyambere indicated. George Ndizihiwe “We work with the cycling club Les Amis Sportifs, Cogebanque's Head which is going to organise different races during of Branches hands the year,” he said. over a cheque to one of the cyclists
www.hope-mag.com 13 Genocide Commemoration SERENA HOTELS SPECIAL FEATURE Kigali Serena Hotel staffs Pay tribute to Genocide victims
Epimaque Tuyisenge, another survivor, told how as a six-year-old he survived the killings that took his parents’ lives in Rwamagana District in the Eastern Province near lake Muhazi, going for days on his own without food or shelter.
While presiding over the event, Lt. Colonel Sostene Kabayiza, who fought with the RPF in the Liberation struggle, shared the journey they went through to save the country from entire devastation. “It tells you much when you see someone who was six years old at the time recounting everything as it happened. The survivors went through a lot given that the killers had the intention of finishing off all the Tutsis in the country,” he noted.
Kigali Serena staff led by country manager Daniel Sambai paid tribute to the victims at Ntarama
ff Staff of Kigali Serena Hotel has paid tribute to the over 1 million Rwandans that died in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsis as part of this year’s 24th commemoration activities.
A guide at Ntarama Memorial explains how events unfolded there in 1994 ed by their country manager, Daniel Sambai, the staff visited Ismael Bakina from the survivors’ association the Ntarama Genocide Ibuka Rwanda, thanked the RPF led by President Memorial Site in Bugesera Paul Kagame for bringing the massacres to a District, where over 5,000 halt; if wasn’t for them, Rwanda would today be victims have been buried. a failed state, he said. “The killers were filled L with hatred to kill the Tutsis in barbaric ways and In a somber ceremony, the would go on to even fight amongst themselves Kigali Serena staff laid wreaths for the properties the victims had left behind,” on the mass grave and made a he explained. donation for the maintenance Daniel Sambai (Lt.) Kigali Serena country manager, Colonel Sostene Kabayiza and a of the site. After the visit, the staff member light candles to remember the He thanked the management of Kigali Serena delegation returned to the hotel victims of the Genocide Hotel for organizing the commemoration event for testimonies and discussions. as it was important for the hotel’s staff to know what happened in1994, especially the youth Sambai noted that the events that took place before Jean Philbert Nyabutsitsi narrated how he survived who were not in the country at the time, so that and during the genocide were horrific and that it while battling to ensure the safety of his two one-month it never happens again. is unimaginable that human beings can commit old young sisters by crossing over to Kibagabaga such atrocities onto each other. “We need to keep Sector in Gasabo district where soldiers of the Rwanda Kigali Serena country manager, Daniel Sambai, this dialogue going so it never happens again,” he Patriotic Front (RPF) were stationed. First they had Lt. Colonel Sostene Kabayiza and a staff told the staff. Two survivors, who today work at the sought refuge in a church in Gihogere in the same member light candles to remember the victims hotel, shared their stories at the gathering after district, but they fled the place and it later emerged of the Genocide. Kigali Serena staff lay wreaths candles were lit to remember the victims. that many Tutsis were slaughtered there. at Ntarama Genocide Memorial.
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Genocide Commemoration UAP RWANDA SPECIAL FEATURE UAP Rwanda holds commemoration discussions for 24th Kwibuka
ff In the context of the 24h commemoration of the Genocide against the Tutsis, UAP Rwanda has held a 3-day series of discussions at its headquarters to understand and share knowl- edge of Rwanda’s history and particularly the event of 1994.
Calisto Ogaye Managing Director of UAP Rwanda, said that open dialogues had allowed the Rwandan people to rise
“It’s through open dialogues like these that, 24 years later, the Rwandan people have managed to rise from ashes to a rapid development,” observed Calisto Ogaye, the Managing Director of UAP Rwanda. “We should root out genocide ideologies to not let this tragedy happen again.” Edouard Bamporiki, chairman of the National Iterero Commission, talking “This is a new history Rwanda is building, we have to UAP Rwanda staff to pass it onto our descendants and the younger generation,” he added.
hese discussions involved officials like Edouard Bamporiki, the chairman of National Itorero Commisssion (NIC), who had a lot to share regarding the uniqueness of Rwanda in handling the Tconsequences of the Genocide with regards to the political level, the judicial system and the fight against genocide denial and trivialization.
“In order to cherish the Rwandan identity, we should promote unity and reconciliation,” Bamporiki said. “We have an obligation to continue protecting our peaceful country and sustain achievements already attained by our people”.
The discussions also addressed how the genocide was conceived, the fight against genocide ideologies and the social welfare of genocide The discussions survivors with special attention to treating trauma. went on for three days
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Business
MTN RWANDA SPECIAL FEATURE MTN Rwanda partners with RwandaOnline to promote Irembo self-service
“Throughout the Byikorere Campaign, our teams will hit the streets to further understand our users and the difficulties limiting self-service, to improve the design of our technology in a way that incorporates insights from citizens,” Uwajeneza added.
“We are extremely honored and delighted to be able to contribute to the Government mandate of delivering an inclusive digital economy through partners such Irembo,” said the CEO of MTN Rwanda, Bart Hofker. “As a market leader in digital payments, Guests at the we wish to remain the most preferred launch of the joint mode of payment for government campaign services.”
ff MTN Rwanda has joined hands with RwandaOnline, the company powering the Irembo digital platform for government services, in a campaign to promote self-service among citizens in accessing online
government services. Kayisime Nzaramba, Nyarugenge Mayor receives the award for best Irembo district
he 90-day campaign called ‘Byikorere ku Irembo, The campaign’s launch took place in Nyarugenge MTN Rwanda CEO Bart Birangize na MoMo” (Do it with Irembo, finish it with district, due to its outstanding performance in Hofker receives the Overall Top Payment MoMp) will reach out to thousands across the coun- delivering Irembo services to citizens in 2017, Partner award by Irembo try to create awareness and encourage self-service and was attended by Mayor Kayisime Nzaramba. MD Clement Uwajeneza through eGovernment and digital payments. T MTN Rwanda was also crowned the ‘Overall Top Payment Partner’ in 2017 for controlling over The Irembo platform offers over 85 30% of all payments through the Irembo platform. services including basic identification certificates, land services, driving “Platform statistics indicate that over 80% of licenses and health insurance. As it the applicants continue to require assistance also allows digital payments, citizens from the third party while applying for services,” are able to complete an entire pointed out the Managing Director of Irembo, transaction online. Clement Uwajeneza. The latest additions on the platform “The idea is that a do-it-yourself process reduces include applications and payments time and significantly improves the experience for Mutuelle de Santé, permits for MTN Executives for citizens, giving them enough control on our tourism destinations, and soon also at the launch platform.” the registration for national exams.
20 HOPE MARCH-APRIL ISSUE 85 MTN RWANDA SPECIAL FEATURE
About MTN Rwanda
Since 1998, MTN Rwanda has continuously invested in expanding and modernizing its network and is now proudly Rwanda’s No 1 Network.
MTN Rwanda offers superior services to its subscriber base, including innovative propositions such as personalized voice and data offers with MTN Irekure.
The company is also the front runner in Bart Hofker MTN Rwanda's CEO Mobile Financial Services in Rwanda with Norman Munyampundu and Mobile Money, Tap&Pay and MoKash MTN Chief Business Officer introduce MoMo Pay Loans and Savings.
Bart Hofker MTN Chief Executive MTN launches Officer MoMo Pay to improve electronic payment
or a Merchant to use the service, calculate their balance or returns for the day ffIn line with the government’s he/she must be an MTN Mobile Money while using MoMo services. MTN targets vision of a digital and cashless subscriber and have a TIN number over 1.5 million Mobile Money subscribers to register. After registering on to use the system and the firm is working to economy, MTN has launched Fthe platform, these Merchants are given a attract more users throughout the country. its Mobile Money electronic MoMoPay code to use in the payment process. payment platform called “The MoMoPay system will be driven across For payments, a customer simply dials *182*3# the country soon, ensuring that Rwandans, MoMoPay at Kigali City Market. and follows the prompts, including filling in including traders and clients, are able to use This will help their clients and the code of the Merchant and the price of the secure means of business transactions,” said product. “Cash payments are very risky as the MTN CEO, Bart Hofker. Those who have subscribers to pay for goods and money can be stolen. It’s also time consuming already tested the system are really satisfied. services at no extra charge. if one must pay huge sums of money or when a trader has no change. “This service is extremely affordable because I’m only charged 1% when withdrawing and Norman What customers need to note though, is that it also saves me from frequent visits to the Munyampundu when they use MoMoPay there are not extra bank to deposit money,” commented Vieira MTN Chief Business Officer explains transaction charges incurred. What they Muzora, a pharmacist at Cure Pharmacy in MoMo Pay purchase is what they pay for,” said MTN Chief Kigali City Market and who is one of the Business Officer, Norman Munyampundu, Merchants that have already registered for adding that a service provider can also easily the MoMo payment services.
For more information, please contact: MTN PR Desk Teta Mpyisi [email protected]
www.hope-mag.com 21
BANK SPECIAL FEATURE
KCB Bank commemorates with donations to Muhazi Genocide Memorial and Avega Health Centre
ffFor the 24th commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsis, staff According to the World Health Organization, from KCB Bank Rwanda have visited Kigabiro Genocide Memorial site in Rwama- NCDs are one of the main causes of death, gana district and through the KCB Foundation Donated medical equipment worth today with over 36 million people dying 5 Million to Avega Health centre in Rwamagana and contributed towards con- from them annually. The common NCDs in struction of Muhazi genocide Memorial site in the district. Rwanda are cancer, diabetes and chronic respiratory diseases. As early detection is key in finding a permanent cure, the biochemistry equipment donated to Avega health centre will allow early screening.
“Rwanda’s revival will always be a lesson to the world on resilience, humanity and self-reliance,” said George Odhiambo, Managing Director of KCB Bank Rwanda. “We empathize with all the families that suffered this great loss and commend them for standing strong and making significant progress both socially and economically.”
With regards to the support to the health centre, he said: “It is our hope that initiatives of this nature provide sustainable health solutions to the community, which will enable people to focus on improving the Staff from KCB Bank Rwanda and Avega held a Walk to Remember quality of their lives.”
CB Bank staff held a Walk The bank donated Rwf 1 million to to Remember from Kigabiro the construction of Muhazi Genocide Genocide Memorial to Avega Memorial and donated biochemistry Health Centre in Rwamagana medical equipment to the health centre where they listened to for the screening and treatment of non- Ktestimonies from members of Avega. communicable diseases (NCDs).
George Odhiambo At a time when we remember those who MD KCB Bank Rwanda gives lost their lives, it’s important that we the biochemistry continue to honor their legacy by creating equipment to a healthier, sustainable, and economically George Odhiambo Mukabayire viable future.” he remarked. KCB Bank Rwanda MD and Valerie the Legal Mujawayezu Xaverine AVEGA Representative Board Member, lead staff members of AVEGA at Kigabiro Memorial Site
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EventsTheme
KENYAN WOMEN IN RWANDA SPECIAL FEATURE
Kenyan women living in Rwanda Celebrate Women’s Day with disadvantaged girls
ff Kenyan women living in Rwanda have for the third year ackline Ng’anga’ of Techgalore Events Ltd, celebrated International Women’s Day with a charitable the driving force behind the annual event, led a group of over 50 women accompanied activity supporting girls and women. This year they identified by representatives from the Association of Marembo Centre, an organization that takes care of street Kenyans Living in Rwanda, the Kenyan High girls, orphans, pregnant young girls and teenage mothers. JCommission and other well-wishers, who got a warm welcome at the home.
The women shared a drink with the girls at the Marembo center
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KENYAN WOMEN IN RWANDA SPECIAL FEATURE
Jackline Ng’anga is the driving force behind the annual event
The centre relies Some of the Kenyan women at Marembo Centre on well-wishers could identify with the plight of and its two-and-a- the girls at the centre and gave an insightful message on how to half hectare farm ‘Press for Progress’ (the theme of this year’s Women’s Day) in a for the upkeep. ruthless world. The farm project She is the author of ‘In the coordinated by Arms of a Stranger,’ which chronicles her experience of Girumugisha has violent relationships as a way to liberate others going through the 500 chickens for same. Her successful and happy life after such an ordeal greatly egg production to inspired the girls. Rosemary Karangwa the treasurer said they are looking for opportunities to do this more often boost the nutrition Virginia Wambui Mwangi, the director of the Kigali International for the children, Montessori School and the event coordinator, expressed gratitude 6 cows and fields Among them is one senior girl who goes to to all who contributed donations to the centre, university in Kenya, while the others (including which included sanitary towels, diapers, food with fruits and the children of the resident teenage moms) are stuff, clothes and many other items. vegetables. at various levels of education. 16 girls have already been reintegrated into their families, Rosemary Karangwa, the treasurer, said they rehabilitated or provided with other solutions. are looking for opportunities to do this more often and address other challenges faced by girls. The centre relies on well-wishers and its two- They were received by Ildephonse Niyongana, and-a-half hectare farm for the upkeep. The Later in the day, the women met at the restaurant the assistant director of Marembo Centre, farm project coordinated by Girumugisha has of Legend hotel in Kacyiru for dinner and were and Chanel Girumugisha, the monitoring and 500 chickens for egg production to boost the joined by a visiting delegation from the Kenyan evaluation officer. nutrition for the children, 6 cows and fields with Parliament. There was also a talk by Kenyan fruits and vegetables. pastor Tony Gobanga. As a life coach, he The centre was established in 2003, initially addressed women’s issues with an address caring for boys and girls but was turned into Carol Bongo, a Kenyan agronomist and entitled ‘Scented Petals’, a moving personal an exclusive girls’ centre in 2012 as there are entrepreneur who was part of the visit’s true story about relationships. The bottom line over 10 boys’ centres in Kigali. Currently, the organizing committee, encouraged the girls was that women are a treasure worth fighting director is Nicolette Nsabimana, one of the three by sharing her life experience. Having been for and each one ought to carry the worth to founding members, and it is home to 48 children. in an abusive relationship for four years, she be fought for.
www.hope-mag.com 31 Banking SPECIAL FEATURE
Access Bank loans and also give financial Celebrates education to young girls,” he added. The girls were also given an opportunity to share how they Women’s Day at FAWE Girls’ School envisage their careers, and among them were future pilots, doctors, surgeons and many others. ccess Bank has celebrated International “Our role here is to remind you Women’s Day (IWD) at that today, women should know FAWE Girls School with that they are capable of achieving theA Minister of Youth, Rosemary anything that they focus on,” Mbabazi. responded the Minister of Youth, Rosemary Mbabazi. “I also thank Building on the IWD slogan ‘Press Access Bank for this initiative to for Progress,’ Access Bank took engage with and mentor you.” the opportunity to mentor and The festivities also included the engage with young girls about their cutting of a cake to celebrate the challenges, give career guidance empowerment of young girls to and words of encouragement with discover and explore their full regards to their future. potential.
“It’s very important for us to “It is a delight for me and my celebrate Women’s Day with team at Access Bank that we FAWE Girls’ School because it’s an can be able to hold such an opportunity to extend our support to educative session, we are girls and be able mentor you to know grateful that FAWE Girls’ School that women are capable of doing administration allowed us to take anything they focus on ,” said Jean The visit to FAWE included the Access Bank particularly caters for a few hours of their time and cutting of a cake Claude Karayenzi, the Managing to celebrate women’s needs through basic training for engage with them,” Karayenzi the empowerment of young girls Director of Access Bank Rwanda. “ women, teach women on how to access remarked.
“We are delighted and honored to work with Peace Access Bank Rwanda in partnership Through Business as it’s an institution that works to empower and equip women with entrepreneurial skills (PTB) as they contribute to the economic development of with Peace Through Business has the country.” “PTB is in its 11th year as an association offering business training and mentorship program launched the Women Connect Program for women entrepreneurs in Rwanda and it’s
imed at helping Women Network Building onto the theme of to share their experiences and the launch, ‘Connect and enhance their entrepreneurial skills, network with empowered mobilizing finances and highlighting women to inspire the theA empowerment of women. This program nation,’ the Head of intends to train and mentor women life for Personal & Business a period of three months about business, Banking at Access Bank mobilizing finances, record keeping and Rwanda, Gloria Bwiza financial advisory and connect with other Asiimwe observed that already established entrepreneurial women constitute 50% women to share their experiences and of the global population skills. and play a vital role in the economic development A panel discussion at the launch of the Women Connect program The program is part of the ‘W initiative’ of the country as mothers through which Access Bank Rwanda wants and workers. to play a leadership role in promoting implemented through education and leadership,” the well-being of women through the PTB Country Facilitator, Chantal Munanayire.“As remarked PTB Country Facilitator Chantal Munanayire. provision of innovative banking solutions partners, Access Bank and PTB understand this and “Women don’t feel inclined to join business because that address the needs of women through we intend to provide an environment that connects they are not fully supported, but our doors are open training, workshops, financial advisory and women to work and mentor each other as they improve to empower and advise more women. We are also a maternal support scheme. their entrepreneurship skills,” Bwiza said. happy and honored to be working with Access bank.”
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Hospitality
RIDERS LOUNGE SPECIAL FEATURE
According to Muia, at Riders there is a secret behind how dishes are prepared. And while he remains tight-lipped about it, he does mention that the foundation consists of fresh ingredients that are delivered daily by carefully selected suppliers – whether it’s herbs, meats, vegetables or other ingredients.
During the preparation of the food, the highest standards of hygiene and retention of nutrients are observed. And what makes the Riders Experience truly special is the speed of service; snacks will be on your table within 10 minutes and main courses in 15 minutes.
The assistant executive chef at Riders Lounge Kigali, 28-year-old Japan Shaban Gahwita, For a mouth- has already 7 years of solid experience. Having worked in Europe and Asia, he brings a highly creative touch to the Lounge’s kitchen. For him, food has to be prepared from watering experience, the heart, and his secret lies in the spicing and marinating. Riders Lounge is the place to be
ff If food is what makes a place, you could argue that Riders Lounge Kigali is paradise, with Japan Shaban its mouth-watering Gahwita preparing a burger, paying special steaks, grills, pizzas and attention to presentation other platters. Behind all this deliciousness are two chefs who are on top He also says great meals are those made of their game. in the right temperature and for the right duration, while he also pays special attention to presentation. uncan Muia, the executive chef at Riders Lounge, has an experience Riders Lounge’s signature dishes are steaks of over 12 years in culinary arts. and grills, and everything comes in sumptuous He has worked in 5-star hotels like portions that will leave anyone satisfied. And the Stanley and Norfolk in Kenya, not only does it come at affordable prices, but Dalongside the best chefs in the industry. they also have special offers for burgers and pizza where you buy one and get one free. He holds diplomas in food and housekeeping management from Kenya Polytechnique and In the near future, Riders Lounge plans a Duncan Muia the prestigious Kenya Utalii College, and has special family weekend with exceptional the Executive Chef participated in international competitions in offers. For those who haven’t yet discovered at Riders Lounge Kigali culinary arts in Kenya, Ghana and South this culinary paradise, it will be a great Africa, winning several of them. occasion to do so.
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WomenTheme
CAREER WOMEN'S NETWORK KIGALI SPECIAL FEATURE Career Women’s Network Kigali holds ‘Ishyaka’ fundraising gala dinner
� FOR THE SECOND YEAR, THE CAREER WOMEN’S eld at Kigali Marriott, it is a way to secure the NETWORK KIGALI (CWNK) HAS HELD A GALA FUNDRA - network’s future and raise funds to achieve its mission of connecting and empowering ISING DINNER IN THE CONTEXT OF INTERNATIONAL career women in Rwanda and beyond. This WOMEN’S DAY CELEBRATED ON 8 MARCH. H year, the theme was ‘Ishyaka’ (determination)
Guests at the 'Ishyaka' fundraising gala dinner
and it was aligned to the general International Women’s Day theme ‘Time is now: rural and urban activists transforming women’s lives,’ intended to raise awareness about the challenges faced by women in the workplace as they move up the career ladder, and get people to invest in this cause by raising funds for CNWK to achieve its mission.
“When women commit to empowering and uplifting each other, they can really shatter those ceilings and have a true impact on women at all levels in the work place or economy,” said CWNK Founder and Chair, Lucy Schalkwijk. Founder and Chair of CWNK Lucy Schalkwijk
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CAREER WOMEN'S NETWORK KIGALI SPECIAL FEATURE
“We consider ourselves urban activists for the cause of women in the workplace and are therefore determined that the time to address gender imbalance at higher levels of management in the work place is now.” She also quoted President Paul Kagame, who said: “Any place that does not make gender equality a priority, is probably getting other important things wrong too.”
The 'Ishyaka' fundraising gala dinner was well attended The Career Women’s Network Kigali is a professional network of senior career women in Rwanda, created in 2015 with a mission
Some of the members of Career Women’s Network Kigali to ‘connect and empower women in Rwanda.’
“There is no doubt that the unwavering The Career Women’s Network Kigali is commitment and passion for the work CWKN a professional network of senior career is doing will continue to help women unleash women in Rwanda, created in 2015 with their full potential and implement our country’s a mission to ‘connect and empower overarching goals,” she added. women in Rwanda.’ Its vision is to create a global community of professional women, The gala dinner raised funds through financial committed to empowering each other in the pledges by participants and auctions from pursuit of excellence to positively impact CWNK members like Inzuki Designs and the world. By connecting senior career Waka Fitness as well as other supporting women, women can collaborate to share organizations, all while the guests enjoyed a job opportunities, business opportunities mesmerizing dinner from Kigali Marriott’s chefs. as well as news and information.
Fanfan Rwanyindo Kayirangwa, The Minister of Public service and Labour, was the guest speaker
The guest speaker at the gala dinner was Fanfan Rwanyindo Kayirangwa, the Minister of Public Service and Labor.
“To sustain the trend of 64% of women in parliament, it is important for women to continue to make a meaningful contribution to our organization’s mandate and ensure a balance between the various roles of career, leaders, mothers and others,” she said. The 'Ishyaka' fundraising gala dinner was well attended
www.hope-mag.com 37 Motoring
SINOTRUK RWANDA SPECIAL FEATURE SINOTRUK bringing superior Chinese truck technology to the heart of Africa
Sinotruk is the cradle and leading production base of the heavy-duty truck industry in China and has successfully been in Rwanda for several years. It is famous for developing and manufacturing the first heavy duty truck.
SITRAK One of Sinotruck's heavy-duty trucks
he headquarters of China National Heavy They have a wide range of products like dump Having being there long enough they have a Duty Truck Group Co., Ltd. (CNHTC) is trucks, cargo trucks, semitrailers, cement mixer wealth of exposure and experience to make trucks located in Jinan city, Shandong Province, trucks, special vehicles and light trucks. Sintruk suitable for all weather conditions, roads and P. R. China. Sinotruk is known for their also offers services like product procurement other factors affecting the strength of vehicles good quality and durable product globally. guidance, maintenance and offering warranty on performance across the globe. TIn Rwanda, Being one of the most competitive their trucks. Their production line is one equipped trucks and tractors suppliers they contribute largely to ensure each product has the similar high level Worth noting is that from their ISO9001 certified to the infrastructure and construction industry. capacity and capability in performance. manufacturing facility, Sinotruk produces
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SINOTRUK RWANDA SPECIAL FEATURE
A Sinotruk concrete mixer ... from their ISO9001 certified manufacturing facility, HOWO TRUCKS Sinotruk produces hundreds NOW AVAILABLE of thousands special IN RWANDA purpose vehicles per year using more than 150 sets of manufacturing equipment, including the press brake, plate shear, NC plasma cutter, and the uncoiler.
hundreds of thousands special purpose vehicles per year using more than 150 sets of manufacturing equipment, including the press brake, plate shear, NC plasma cutter, and the uncoiler. They own and operate a modern truck manufacturing line, delivering reliable special-use trucks bearing CCC marks to Southeast Asia, Africa, North America, Russia, and the Middle East.
By leveraging more than 10 years of experience in serving the trucking industry and introducing ground- breaking special truck design, Haoruitong has been all the times taking the lead in technological innovation, product research and development, process improvement, manufacturing, and quality management.
The designated special-purpose vehicle research center is home to 36 senior professionals and 520 technical ASIA MACHINERY INVESTMENTS LTD workers. The winning of over 30 national patents is a SINOTRUK RWANDA SALES & SERVICES CENTER testament to our technical strength, which empowers Mobile: +250 784 625 038, Gishushu area next to Accord hotel, KG628ST, Sintruk to continue upgrading the existing products and Gasabo district, Kigali-Rwanda, Email. [email protected] developing new technology suite for all.
www.hope-mag.com 39
Genocide Commemoration
MTN RWANDA SPECIAL FEATURE
MTN Rwanda staff before Nyarubuye Roman Catholic Church
MTN Rwanda staff remember Genocide victims in Nyarubuye
ffStaff of MTN Rwanda on Friday visited Nyarubuye Genocide Memorial Site in Kirehe District, Eastern Province, to commemorate the more than 58,000 victims of the Genocide against the Tutsis buried there.
aving sought refuge at the Nyarubuye Cath- olic Church, men, women and children were killed indiscriminately when they were at- tacked. The church and houses of the nuns MTN Rwanda CEO Bart Hofker signs visitors' book at Nyarubuye and priest where the victims took refuge are Genocide Memorial Site Htoday the Nyarubuye Genocide Memorial Site.
Led by CEO Bart Hofker, the church, thinking that it was safe, MTN Rwanda staff donated Rwf experienced such endings Survivors 2 million for the maintenance of to their lives.” of the 1994 the site and an additional Rwf Genocide 5 million for survivors of the Hofker commended the contin- against the Tutsi genocide. ued talks and dissemination of in Nyarubuye information to fight genocide hold a dummy “We read about what happened ideologies and urged people to check from MTN Rwanda to here before visiting and being continue to remember the victims. support them here to listen to the explanation start projects of what happened makes it even “I am afraid it is never enough. We beneficial to more terrible,” said Hofker. need to keep the dialogue alive them and their so that we preserve the history families “It’s terrible in itself that people of what happened and ensure it that came to seek refuge in the never happens again,” he said.
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GenocideTheme Commemoration YEGOMOTO SPECIAL FEATURE Yegomoto commemorates Genocide with visit to a moto driver/survivor
ffStaff of taxi-moto services company Yegomoto have visited one its drivers, who is a survivor of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsis, as part of its commemoration activities this year.
Delegation from Yegomoto which paid rent and other basic At some point in his basic education, his necessities for guardian failed school fees so Niyomuhoza the driver decided to learn to drive a motorcycle with the hope of becoming a taxi-moto rider. Upon receiving his riding permit in 2015, he moved to Kigali in search of work.
A delegation from Yegomoto visited him in his home in Kinyinya Sector, Gasabo District where he stays alone, and paid his rent for the next four months along with basic home items and food.
“I am grateful for the new family I have in Yegomoto, and I commend them for reaching out to us, survivors employed in the country’s informal sector,” Niyomuhoza said.
He added that there are many other survivors doing informal jobs who often lgentin Niyomuhoza, who is 24 years As an only child living with his parents in the then Kibungo need the kind of support he received from old, is a Yegomoto driver who doesn’t Prefecture (now Eastern Province), he was orphaned Yegomoto, and therefore urged other own a motorbike but often borrows during the 1994 Genocide, and was subsequently raised companies and individuals to follow the A one from friends to earn a living. by an aging distant relative in the area. example.
Algentin Niyomuhoza's Home
I am grateful for the new family I have in Yegomoto, and I commend them for reaching out to us, survivors employed in the country’s informal sector Niyomuhoza
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HOWO TRUCKS NOW AVAILABLE IN RWANDA
ASIA MACHINERY INVESTMENTS LTD SINOTRUK RWANDA SALES & SERVICES CENTER
Mobile: +250 784 625 038, Gishushu area next to Accord hotel, KG628ST, Gasabo district, Kigali-Rwanda, Email. [email protected]