In a significant stride towards environmental sustainability and corporate responsibility, I&M Bank Rwanda was awarded the prestigious EDGE Advanced Certification for its head office building by the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group.
The recent ‘Rwanda Green Building Minimum Compliance’ underscores the country’s dedication to building a greener future. I&M Bank Rwanda’s head office exemplifies these principles, having been designed and constructed with a strong focus on environmental sustainability.
The building’s design choices have resulted in impressive energy savings of 58%, water savings of 51%, and embodied energy savings of 21%. These achievements have earned the building the prestigious EDGE Advanced Certification from IFC.
Mary Porter Peschka, IFC Regional Director in Eastern Africa, expressed her appreciation for I&M Bank while presenting an award to the institution.
"This EDGE Advanced Certification for I&M Bank Rwanda comes as a recognition of their dedication to sustainability and environmental stewardship. This achievement highlights I&M Bank’s leadership in adopting green building practices and promoting a more sustainable future in Rwanda,” she said.
Benjamin Mutimura, CEO of I&M Bank Rwanda, expressed his pride in receiving the EDGE Advanced Certification, stating, "At I&M Bank, we are committed to integrating sustainability into our operations and contributing positively to the communities we serve. The certification of our head office building is a testament to our dedication to environmental stewardship and responsible business practices.”
Key features of I&M Bank Rwanda's head office
Among its key attributes are its innovative building envelope and energy efficiency measures. The building integrates passive design elements that maximise natural ventilation and minimise heat gain, significantly reducing the reliance on air-conditioning systems.
Moreover, the incorporation of energy-efficient technologies, including a solar photovoltaic (PV) system, alongside naturally ventilated common areas, plays a pivotal role in driving substantial energy savings.
Furthermore, the head office prioritises water efficiency, boasting high-efficiency water fittings and a comprehensive strategy to reduce potable water consumption. This approach has led to significant water savings, in line with Rwanda's water conservation objectives.
In a bid to minimise environmental impact, the building utilises locally sourced materials with a lower carbon footprint, such as Ruliba bricks and granite. This conscious choice not only contributes to embodied energy savings but also reduces the environmental footprint associated with construction activities.
About I&M Bank Rwanda
Incorporated in 1963, I&M Bank Rwanda Plc holds the distinction of being the oldest bank in Rwanda. Over the decades, it has grown to become one of the industry’s prominent players, boasting a strong presence across the nation.
With a comprehensive portfolio of personal, business, institutional, and corporate banking products available at its various locations, I&M Bank Rwanda Plc caters to a diverse range of customer needs.
The Bank is a subsidiary of I&M Group PLC, a leading regional financial services group in Eastern Africa with a presence in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda and a joint venture with CIEL Group in Mauritius.
I&M Group has a long history of 50 years in banking and has established a wide network of correspondent banks across the globe and enjoys a strong relationship with leading international Development Financial Institutions.
About IFC
IFC as a member of the World Bank Group is the largest global development institution focused on the private sector in emerging markets. They work in more than 100 countries, using their capital, expertise, and influence to create markets and opportunities in developing countries.
In the fiscal year 2023, IFC committed a record $43.7 billion to private companies and financial institutions in developing countries, leveraging the power of the private sector to end extreme poverty and boost shared prosperity as economies grapple with the impacts of global compounding crises.