BPR Bank Rwanda Plc has been officially named "Bank of the Year – Rwanda 2025” by The Banker Magazine, a prestigious recognition that crowns a historic year for the institution. As BPR celebrates its 50th anniversary, this award reaffirms its leadership, resilience, and enduring impact on Rwanda’s financial landscape.

From cooperative roots to a national banking Powerhouse

Fifty years ago, BPR began as a community-based savings and credit movement in Nkamba cell , currently in Eastern Province, Kayonza District , Ruramira cell, a humble people driven initiative rooted in trust, solidarity, and cooperation. What started as small savings groups empowering ordinary Rwandans has, over the decades, transformed through growth, rebranding, consolidation, and a landmark merger under KCB Group into Rwanda’s most extensive banking network.

In its Golden Jubilee year, celebrated under the theme "50 Forward,” BPR reflected on an exceptional journey marked by a loan book that expanded more than 40 fold, soaring deposits, and a rapidly growing asset base, all while deepening its footprint and making financial services more accessible across the country.

Why BPR earned the "Bank of the Year 2025” tittle

This is not BPR’s first recognition. In 2024, The Banker/Financial Times named it Bank of the Year – Rwanda.But the 2025 award stands out because it recognizes not just strong performance, but the legacy, stability, and national impact BPR demonstrated in its 50th year.

1. Strong Financial Health and Sustainable Growth

In its 2025 financial update, BPR reported solid loan and deposit growth, coupled with strong capital adequacy and liquidity ,clear indicators of long-term stability.

2. Deep Reach and Commitment to Inclusion

With 73 branches, more than 2,240 agents, and a wide ATM, merchant, mobile, and internet banking network, BPR remains Rwanda’s most accessible financial institution, continuing its founding mission of staying "close to the people.”

3. Championing SMEs, Women, and Youth

Through initiatives such as Ikamba, supporting women led SMEs, and its long-standing investment in youth empowerment and social-impact programs, BPR Bank continues to drive inclusive growth and empower communities nationwide.

4. A Legacy of Trust Built Over Generations

Five decades later, BPR Bank still lives by it’s original promise to listen, serve, and walk with customers on their journey to financial security. Its legacy is one of trust, community connection, and meaningful impact.

A victory that belongs to the people

This award is a powerful validation of BPR’s evolution from grassroots community savings groups to a national leader in banking and bancassurance.

For customers, it strengthens confidence that their bank is globally recognized while remaining deeply rooted in local realities.

For Rwanda, it showcases the strength of homegrown institutions that meet international standards while uplifting communities.

"50 Forward”: Building the next chapter

As BPR looks ahead to the next 50 years under the rallying call "50 Forward,” the bank is not only celebrating its legacy, it is renewing its commitment to innovation, sustainability, customer experience, and purpose driven banking.

With this award, BPR Bank Rwanda Plc enters its next chapter with renewed energy, greater responsibility, and a clear vision to continue building a stronger, more inclusive, and more prosperous Rwanda.