FEATURED: BPR Bank Rwanda wins Bank of the Year 2024 award
Friday, December 06, 2024
BPR Bank Rwanda Managing Director Patience Mutesi receives the award as the bank honoured as ‘Bank of the Year 2024, in Rwanda during a gala event at the Peninsula Hotel, London, on December 4, 2024. Courtesy

BPR Bank Rwanda has been honoured as ‘Bank of the Year 2024 – Rwanda’ by the Financial Times and its subsidiary The Banker. The prestigious accolade was presented at a gala event held at the Peninsula Hotel, London, on December 4, 2024.

This recognition underscores BPR Bank's unwavering commitment to driving Rwanda’s financial ecosystem forward, with a strong focus on Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), climate change management, and social empowerment initiatives.

In 2024, BPR Bank Rwanda stood out for its robust SME investment programs. This year the bank has partnered with Denmark’s Investment Fund for Developing Countries (IFU) and the International Finance Corporation (IFC) to designate Rwf 62 billion in financing to entrepreneurship and job creation.

The bank also implemented innovative solutions to combat climate change, such as offering green financing products and supporting sustainable agriculture. Furthermore, its impactful social empowerment initiatives like IGIRE, a youth vocational training program has improved access to education for underprivileged communities across the country.

Managing Director Patience Mutesi who received the award on behalf of the bank expressed her gratitude, saying: "We are deeply honoured to receive the Bank of the Year 2024 award. This recognition reflects the dedication of our team, the trust of our customers, and the partnerships we have built over the years. BPR Bank remains committed to fostering inclusive growth by empowering SMEs, advancing sustainability, and improving the lives of Rwandans. As we look to the future, we aim to enhance financial inclusion and drive innovation to meet the evolving needs of our communities."

Looking ahead, BPR Bank Rwanda envisions becoming a leader in digital banking and financial inclusion. The bank is set to expand its digital footprint, ensuring that underserved and rural populations have access to affordable and convenient financial services.

Additionally, plans are underway to double its investments in climate-resilient projects, aligning with Rwanda’s national green growth agenda.