Ecobank Rwanda and DHL Express Rwanda have launched a partnership aimed at empowering micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) with skills in financial management and export readiness. Unveiled at Ecobank’s headquarters in Kigali on Tuesday, June 10, the initiative will provide entrepreneurs with practical training that goes beyond traditional financing to foster sustainable business growth. Emmanuel Maboneza, the Head of Commercial Banking and Branches at Ecobank Rwanda, said the partnership presents an opportunity to support MSMEs by enhancing their business management capabilities. This collaboration will deliver; Capacity-building programs tailored to real business challenges, Financial literacy training to improve decision-making and resilience, Access to vital market information and digital resources and Support for cross-border trade, helping MSMEs expand beyond borders. Maboneza noted that the initiative marks a shift from Ecobank’s conventional role of providing financial services to a more holistic approach that includes non-financial support. “Providing loans is not sufficient if business owners lack the knowledge to manage their finances and operations effectively. Through this initiative, we aim to equip our clients with the necessary skills to build resilient and sustainable businesses,” he said. Maboneza noted that Ecobank’s Single Market trade hub—an online platform connecting buyers and sellers across Africa—will serve as a tool for MSMEs seeking new markets. “Our trade hub enables businesses to identify opportunities in different countries by revealing unmet product demands. This transparency empowers entrepreneurs to expand their reach strategically.” The partnership between Ecobank and DHL aims to reduce the risks associated with lending by ensuring that clients are trained before accessing credit. “Training clients prior to loan disbursement allows us to better understand their businesses, assess viability, and increase their chances of success,” Maboneza added. He also acknowledged DHL’s commitment to social responsibility, stating: “We appreciate DHL’s generosity in offering these capacity-building sessions at no cost to our clients. We have a shared goal of creating lasting economic and social impact.” Fred Gashumba, the Country Manager of DHL Express Rwanda, noted the importance of trade in driving economic development. He explained DHL’s global network, spanning over 220 countries and territories, as a key asset in helping SMEs access international markets. “Many small business owners underestimate the requirements involved in exporting products. Customs regulations, packaging standards, labeling, and other compliance issues can be barriers. DHL’s training modules aim to explain these processes and prepare entrepreneurs to meet international standards,” he said. Gashumba added: “As more SMEs venture into online sales, efficient and reliable delivery services are crucial. We will assist them in integrating with our shipping platforms to reach customers worldwide.” The program will feature 14 training modules covering various sectors, delivered through both virtual and in-person sessions. DHL experts will work with Ecobank staff to provide tailored guidance addressing specific industry needs. This flexible format ensures the training remains relevant and accessible to a wide range of entrepreneurs, he explained. He stressed that today’s business landscape demands more than just access to capital, as information and capacity-building are equally crucial. By combining Ecobank’s expertise with DHL’s global reach, the partnership seeks to address the gaps that often hinder SME growth. Gashumba said that DHL’s mission goes beyond logistics, stressing the need to inspire SMEs to think beyond local markets and seize opportunities across Africa and beyond. “This collaboration is part of a broader regional strategy aligned with Ecobank’s footprint across multiple African countries. Wherever Ecobank operates, DHL is ready to support SMEs with consistent access to training and market opportunities,” he said. Maboneza highlighted Ecobank Rwanda’s recent recognition as the best trade finance provider by Global Finance magazine, calling it evidence of the bank’s dedication to empowering businesses through innovative products and services. “Investing in capacity-building today lays the foundation for a strong economy tomorrow. We are committed to nurturing the next generation of business leaders who will drive Rwanda’s economic growth.”
