Bank of Kigali (BK) organised the Kira Kibondo kids' party titled “Back to School with BK,” on Saturday, August 31 at Kigali’s car-free zone (Imbuga). The event, part of the ongoing Nanjye Ni BK Campaign designed to engage young savers and foster financial literacy among youth, brought together 200 Kira Kibondo account holders aged between three and 18. Dr. Diane Karusisi, CEO of BK, stressed the importance of the event as part of the bank’s broader commitment to financial empowerment through the Kira Kibondo Savings Account initiative. ALSO READ: BK Group chair tours major BK Foundation schemes on financial literacy, entrepreneurship “The celebration was a significant part of our ongoing commitment to financial empowerment,” Karusisi said. She added that it not only celebrates the loyalty of the bank’s current account holders but also promotes early saving habits among the youth. The kids' party featured a variety of activities including games, dance entertainment, and a range of kid-friendly attractions. Attendees enjoyed bouncing castles, car rides, painting, and other interactive activities. Media personality Anita Pendo and costume performers added to the festive atmosphere. The event also recognised the commitment of Kira Kibondo club members who are transitioning to adult accounts. BK awarded certificates to ten youngsters who turned 18 and had been saving with the bank. Dr. Karusisi highlighted the essence of continued saving, urging the young account holders to remain with BK and act as ambassadors for the programme. ALSO READ: BK Group registers 29% growth in net profit for first half of 2024 In her remarks, Karusisi encouraged parents to teach their children the value of saving from a young age. “I appreciate parents who have instilled a saving culture in their children. Teaching kids about money management helps them in emergencies and prepares them for a better future,” she added. Karusisi urged parents to open savings accounts for their children with a minimum deposit of Rwf 5,000 and to consider setting up standing orders to deposit funds into these accounts regularly. She mentioned that even small amounts saved regularly can accumulate over time. The Kira Kibondo programme, launched nearly eight years ago, aims to secure the financial future of children aged 3 to 18. The accounts are free of charge, with a minimum deposit requirement of Rwf 5,000, and offer an interest rate of 8% per year, paid quarterly. Withdrawals are permitted once a year without the need for powers of attorney. Marie-Josee Musanganire, a parent of a Kira Kibondo account holder, praised the programme for its role in promoting saving. “We thank BK for encouraging our children to save. My child’s account has been growing steadily, and it’s been a valuable tool for managing finances,” Musanganire noted. She started saving for her child when he was 13 years old, and he is now almost 21. She encouraged other parents to adopt this saving culture. Edwin Sheja, one of the ten awardees, shared his positive experience with the Kira Kibondo programme. Opening his account at age 11, Sheja, now 18, highlighted the benefits of saving from a young age. “Saving with BK has been a great experience. It has taught me financial independence, and I no longer rely on my parents for all my expenses,” he said. He advised peers to start saving early, even with small amounts, to build a solid financial foundation.
