In its drive to support the Connect Rwanda campaign, Bank of Kigali has donated 1,070 smartphones to households in Gicumbi District. The Connect Rwanda challenge was launched in 2019 with the aim of providing smartphones to Rwandans who cannot afford them, especially in rural areas. Following the launch of the campaign, BK Group PLC pledged Rwf200 million that assures the purchase of 2,000 smartphones including 1,500 smartphones given on behalf of the Group, and 500 smartphones from BK staff. Presiding over the donation in Gicumbi District, Emmanuel Nkusi Batanage, Bank of Kigali’s Head of Corporate Affairs and Company Secretary said that the donation will promote financial inclusion through improved service delivery and access to business opportunities. He added that the donation towards the Connect Rwanda initiative is further proof of Bank of Kigali’s commitment to supporting national initiatives. “Bank of Kigali has always been at the forefront in contributing to the well-being and progress of our Nation as evidenced by our continuous participation in various endeavours aiming at transforming the lives of fellow Rwandans,” he said. The Minister of Local Government, Jean Marie Vianney Gatabazi, lauded the efforts from the private sector and partners like BK in making sure that all Rwandans are connected and commended them for their support. In Gicumbi District the beneficiaries who were chosen are workers at the Uganda-Rwanda border who tackle fraudulent trade, illicit alcohol and drugs smuggling among others. Epimaque Tumwibaze one of the beneficiaries thanked the government and Bank of Kigali for initiating the programme saying it will tremendously help him in his work. I work at the border and help catch traffickers of drugs and illegal alcohol. I will use the smartphone that I have received today to get access to information and also be able to give timely information about what is happening he said. Jeanne Karasira, another beneficiary said that the phones will help her to easily access banking services, internet and news so she can know what is happening in the country and around the world.
