On Thursday, September 18, BRALIRWA Plc, part of the HEINEKEN Company in partnership with Empower Rwanda has today launched a social impact initiative to support 100 young women from underserved communities in Gatsibo and Rwamagana District to receive business start-up kits to enhance their economic opportunities.

In April 2025, BRALIRWA, Rwanda’s leading beverage company, partnered with Empower Rwanda, a women-led non-governmental organization committed to equipping women and youth with skills and knowledge for sustainable development to provide business startup kits to women who successfully completed the NGO’s vocational training programs.

The social impact initiative will support 100 young women, specifically those who became mothers during their teenage years who were selected from the Muhazi Sector in Rwamagana District and the Kabarore Sector in Gatsibo District in collaboration with their respective local authorities.

The business start-up kits are categorized in the trades of tailoring, culinary arts, and hairdressing sectors, comprising items such as sewing machines, gas cookers, and professional hairdressing equipment, along with other relevant accessories. Beneficiaries of the project will be grouped into business groups relative to the vocational training they each have received from Empower Rwanda.

Dr. Olivia Kabatesi, Founder and Country Director of Empower Rwanda, commended BRALIRWA and the support from local authorities as key partners in advancing national priorities of entrepreneurship, gender inclusion and youth employment.

"Many beneficiaries complete vocational training but lack resources to launch their own income generating activities. With the provision of business start-up kits, these women now have both the expertise and practical tools required to establish sustainable and profitable enterprises,” said Dr. Olivia Kabatesi. "This partnership represents a significant step toward bridging the gap between skills development and economic opportunity, and we are grateful for the collaboration that enables women economic empowerment and lasting impact in local communities” she added.

BRALIRWA donated 34,000,000 Rwf to fund the social impact project which will enable beneficiaries to start small businesses using the provided tool kits. This support aims to support young women to earn a dignified and sustainable living, uplift their families, and strengthen their communities.

"Sustainability is an integral part of our business operations under our ‘Brew a Better World’ agenda. This initiative reflects our deep commitment to caring for people and the planet, and to building a more sustainable and inclusive future. By empowering women with the skills and tools to succeed, we are investing not only in their businesses but also in stronger families and resilient communities” said Ms. Ethel Emma-Uche, BRALIRWA Managing Director.

The Mayor of Rwamagana District, Mr. Mbonyumuvunyi Radjab, who officiated the launch of the event, commended the great partnership between the private sector, NGOs, and local government in empowering local communities.

"This initiative aligns with the objectives of our National Employment Program, which focuses on empowering women and youth through skills training and entrepreneurship. By providing opportunities such as these, BRALIRWA and Empower Rwanda are contributing to the transformation of lives, helping individuals build brighter futures for themselves and their families,” said Mayor Radjab.

Last year, BRALIRWA Plc supported 250 households in Munyiginya sector, Rwamagana district to gain access to safe drinking water through donation of ceramic water filters in partnership with Spouts of Water Rwanda as part of its social impact initiatives.