Equity Bank Rwanda, in partnership with Love Gate Organisation, celebrated the graduation of women who completed training under Equity Bank’s empowerment program in Burera District on March 7.

In observance of International Women’s Day, the bank also provided small livestock to trainees in need, reinforcing its commitment to economic and social empowerment.

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The partnership between Equity Bank Rwanda and Love Gate Organisation started on January 3, aims to equip women with essential skills in business development and financial management.

Through this initiative, participants receive training on how to build and manage sustainable projects. Upon completion, they are supported in forming groups or establishing individual businesses, with continued mentorship and access to financial services.

Loyce Bamwine, Director of Social Impact Investments at Equity Bank Rwanda, emphasised that Equity Bank’s mission extends beyond financial services.

"Equity understands that our primary mission is not just to provide financial support, but to improve livelihoods in the communities we serve. Our Social Impact department leads various initiatives to enhance the well-being of women and youth through financial literacy and economic empowerment,” she explained.

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She added: "As part of this program, Equity Bank links trained women with financial institutions, enabling them to access loans based on their project plans.”

The bank offers financial products tailored to different levels of need, starting from Rwf50,000 for those who lack collateral. For more established entrepreneurs, additional support is provided through partnerships with institutions such as the African Development Bank and the Business Development Fund (BDF), covering up to 75% of loan guarantees.

Bamwine said that the current phase of the initiative started in Burera District with 412 participants, but the broader objective is to train 4,500 women across multiple districts in Northern Province.

"The training includes financial inclusion education, business planning, bookkeeping, and loan preparation. Additionally, participants are encouraged to develop a savings culture,” she said.

Edouard Bahufite, International Legal Representative of Love Gate Organisation, expressed gratitude to Equity Bank for donating pigs to women, enabling them to establish sustainable income streams. He also noted Burera District&039;s ongoing commitment to supporting long-term development initiatives.

"In our work, Love Gate Organisation prioritises building resilience and dignity within communities rather than pursuing profit,” he emphasised.

Northern Province Governor Maurice Mugabowagahunde commended Equity Bank for its continuous efforts to empower citizens, especially women and youth in Northern Province.

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He also acknowledged Love Gate Organisation’s contributions to environmental conservation and community development.

"For those who received training, ensure that the knowledge translates into tangible progress. Share what you have learned with others to extend the impact within your communities,” Mugabowagahunde urged.

He further encouraged beneficiaries to take good care of the livestock they received, emphasising that sustainable financial growth requires both saving and responsible investment.