Rwanda Institute of Co-operatives, Entrepreneurship and Microfinance (RICEM) capacity to train and equip Rwandans with marketable skills has been boosted by Rwf90 million worth of equipment. 

The equipment and training materials that were donated by Germany-based Savings Foundation for International Co-operation (SBFIC) include two omnibuses, eight hi-tech computers, scholastic and other training materials.

They were channelled through the Association of Microfinance Rwanda (AMIR).

Oscar Bahizi, the RICEM director, said the donation will enhance the institution’s capacity to deliver on its objectives, as well as ensure efficiency and reduce the cost of training and equipping students with entrepreneurial skills.

"This is a timely boost that will help improve our capacity and efficiency. It will also support initiatives in information and communication technology,” Bahizi said while receiving the equipment at the institute.

Peter Rwema, AMIR’s programmes director, re-affirmed the need for stakeholders and development partners to work together and promote professionalism in the microfinance sector.

"We need to emphasise professionalism, efficiency and innovation for the sector to become more competitive and deliver its economic objectives,” Rwema noted during the hand over ceremony in Kacyiru on Monday.

"By doing these, we will be able to increase members’ household incomes and reduce poverty levels across the country.

Rwanda Institute of Cooperatives, Entrepreneurship and Microfinance was launched last month to offer practical skills and education in the areas like entrepreneurship, financial management and accountancy.

The institute is expected to churn out professionals who will support micro, small and medium-sized entrepreneurs to grow their business by equipping them with right skills.

Rwanda is targeting 80 per cent financial inclusion by 2017; and according to Rwema, the country’s microfinance sector needs to be equipped to play a critical role to the realisation of this objective.