Patience Mutesi will be the new Managing Director of BPR Bank Rwanda, a subsidiary of KCB Group, effective February 1, 2023.
Mutesi replaces George Odhiambo, who was assigned new duties in KCB Group. She joins the bank after serving as Country Director for TradeMark East Africa since July 2016 where she oversaw a strategic trade facilitation program which contributed significantly towards increasing Rwanda's trade, investments and job creation.
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She previously served as Head of Corporate Banking in Ecobank Rwanda and also served as board member on the boards of BPR Rwanda, MTN Rwandacell, Rwanda Cooperation and Advisory council of One Acre Fund in Rwanda.
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According to a BPR Bank statement, she brings a diversified background in private sector development and the financial sector including corporate governance, credit management, strategy and product development, as well as credible expertise in risk management.
George Rubagumya, Chairman of BPR Bank Rwanda Board, said: "We are delighted to have Mutesi on board, and particularly pleased with the experience she will bring with her invaluable background in finance and trade development.”
On behalf of staff and Management, Rubagumya, also thanked Odhiambo, for his undivided commitment during his time as Managing Director, adding that the bank is in a strong financial position to foster its desired momentum in the coming years.
"I wish him all the best in his future endeavors.”
Mutesi’s new employer, BPR Bank Rwanda, is the largest bank in the country by branch network with 154 branches, playing a critical role in supporting a budding economy to drive financial inclusion in the country, focusing on inclusive growth, equality, financial opportunities, money management, investment initiatives, and poverty reduction.
Mutesi said: "I am honoured to be given the opportunity to lead this bank and thank the BPR Bank Rwanda Board of Directors and KCB Group for their vote of confidence. As I embark on this journey, priority will be on enhancement of our customers' experience in dealing with the Bank.
"I am confident that through the latest digital developments, our customers will transition into best-in-class financial services. By increasing provision of capital to businesses for quality investment, we will also continue to support Rwanda's ambition to foster a private sector driven economy.”
Mutesi was born in Kenya – to Rwandan refugee parents – but later moved to Uganda and lived there until she completed her Bachelor’s degree in 2004.
In a past interview, she told The New Times that she decided to come back to Rwanda because she felt that she would make a contribution since the country was taking great strides in the right direction. For more than a decade now, she has dedicated her time, energy and ideas in Rwanda’s banking sector, towards the growth of global, regional as well as local businesses.