Equity Bank Rwanda has launched a nationwide dairy farmer training programme under the theme "Empowering Dairy Farmers,” designed to boost financial literacy, improve livestock farming practices, and uplift the livelihoods of dairy farmers across the country.

The initiative officially kicked off on May 23 with a five-day training event in Nyagatare and Rwamagana districts, Eastern Province, bringing together dairy farmers, cooperative leaders, local authorities, and key stakeholders from the agriculture sector.

The programme forms a core part of Equity Bank’s broader strategy, which commits to allocating 30 per cent of its lending portfolio to the agriculture sector by 2030.

Targeting many Milk Collection Centres (MCCs) across the country, the initiative focuses on sustainable dairy farming, cooperative development, and increased access to tailored financial tools and services that foster resilience and growth across the dairy value chain.

Hannington Namara, Managing Director of Equity Bank Rwanda, underscored the programme’s goal of transforming Rwanda’s dairy sector by equipping farmers with both financial and agricultural skills.

Speaking not only as a banker but also as a farmer, he encouraged participants to shift their mindset and approach farming as a viable and profitable business.

"As a farmer, I want to begin by thanking you for taking the time to learn and grow. It’s time we change our mindset about farming; we don’t want financially uninformed farmers; we want farmers who are financially empowered and successful,” he said.

He emphasised that the programme goes beyond education to catalyse long-term change in rural livelihoods and national development.

"By combining financial literacy with agricultural training, we’re not just offering education; we’re driving transformation. Dairy farmers are essential to Rwanda’s economy, and this initiative is about enabling them to build sustainable businesses, increase their income, and become active contributors to the country’s progress,” he stated.

Radjabu Mbonyumuvunyi, the Mayor of Rwamagana District, commended the partnership with Equity Bank Rwanda as a meaningful step towards transforming the agricultural sector and unlocking the economic potential of farmers.

He noted that Rwamagana’s fertile land makes it ideal for farming and expressed concern that, while most Rwandans depend on agriculture, wealth is still concentrated among business owners—not farmers.

"Rwamagana is naturally made for farming because of the quality of our soil. Most Rwandans depend on agriculture, but it’s often businesspeople who become wealthy. Why can’t farmers be rich too? That’s something I worry about—but I believe this training is a step towards changing that,” he said.

He went on to highlight the broader impact of public-private partnerships like this one, which he believes can foster lasting change in rural communities.

"This partnership is a practical example of what public-private collaboration can achieve. We appreciate Equity Bank’s dedication to empowering our farmers, especially in dairy, which is a key pillar of our local economy, and training farmers with the right skills and financial tools, we are laying the foundation for food security and economic independence in our communities,” he added.

One of the dairy farmers who took part in the training, Frida Mukamyuga, shared her gratitude for the opportunity and the practical skills gained through the programme. She emphasised that the training not only deepened her understanding of livestock care and farm management but also inspired confidence in building a better future.

"I’ve learned so much — how to properly feed and care for cows, and how to manage resources better. I want to assure the Mayor that we are leaving here with real, practical skills — and we are going to apply them to improve our lives, support our families, and become successful farmers,” she said.

She also expressed a renewed sense of trust in Equity Bank, noting the bank’s hands-on support and commitment to farmers’ success.

"Thank you, Equity Bank, for training that’s changing our mindset. For me personally, I’m even thinking of switching banks because Equity has shown that they truly care about us farmers and want us to succeed,” she added.

In the Eastern Province, a total of 160 dairy farmers have been trained. This initiative will expand to 30 districts, equipping farmers with financial literacy, support, and the skills needed to build sustainable agribusinesses.