PRESS RELEASE: Rwanda Bankers’ Association convenes National Dialogue on Credit Market Dynamics at 2025 Research Conference

Kigali, Rwanda - On June 19, 2025, the Rwanda Bankers’ Association (RBA) convened its Annual Banking Research Conference at the Kigali Serena Hotel, gathering over 100 stakeholders from Rwanda’s financial ecosystem under the theme: “Credit Market Dynamics in Rwanda: Technology, Regulation, and Competition.” The conference served as a vital platform for collaborative dialogue between banking institutions, fintech innovators, regulators, academia, and development partners. Discussions centered on how to strengthen Rwanda’s credit market through policy reform, digital innovation, and inclusive financing strategies, particularly for underserved groups and MSMEs. A Sector at a Turning Point Over the past decade, Rwanda’s financial sector has witnessed significant transformation, driven by technological innovation, regulatory evolution, and increased competition. While digital platforms and fintechs have broadened access to credit, challenges remain in addressing the persistent financing gap for MSMEs, managing competition between new and traditional players, and crafting regulations that balance innovation with consumer protection. “Our journey is far from over. The credit market is the engine that powers the economy. However, despite our progress, MSMEs continue to struggle to access the credit they need to grow,” said Tony Francis Ntore, CEO of RBA. “Technology alone is not enough. It must be guided by regulation and healthy competition. This conference is more than a meeting of minds; it’s a call to action. I urge you to be bold in your engagement, courageous in your conversations, and visionary in your recommendations.” High-Level Speakers & Engaging Dialogue The event featured a rich agenda that included a keynote address by Hon. Soraya M. Hakuziyaremye, Governor of the National Bank of Rwanda, and opening remarks from Dr. Diane Karusisi, Chief Executive Officer of Bank of Kigali. “As you know, credit markets are critical to powering economic growth and transformation, but they’re also shaping the future of our industry. The credit market is no longer what it was 10 years ago; it is being shaped by technology, shifting regulatory frameworks, and growing competition,” Dr. Karusisi stated. “Many MSMEs, however, remain excluded from credit markets. We believe this conference will help us confront and address this specific issue of exclusion.” Delivering the keynote address, Hon. Soraya M. Hakuziyaremye, Governor of the National Bank of Rwanda, called for a progressive and responsive approach to regulation. “In recent years, Rwanda has made tremendous efforts in developing our vast and inclusive credit market, from the strengthening of regulatory frameworks to the rise of digital lending platforms,” she said. “Effective regulation must strike a delicate balance between encouraging innovation while protecting consumers and maintaining systemic integrity. As the credit market evolves, so too must regulatory approaches, guided by data and inclusive dialogue.” “This annual research conference is a vital input in providing evidence-based policy advice.” Academic Research & Evidence-Based Policy The core of the conference was the presentation of five rigorously researched papers tackling key issues, including: The evolution of fintech and its implications for bank risk appetite. Optimal credit growth pathways for Rwanda. MSME financing frameworks; Bank concentration and financial stability; Comparative studies on credit access between Kenya and Rwanda. A Cross-Sector and Regional Dialogue A panel discussion moderated by Konde Bugingo, Managing Director of MUA, sparked an interactive exchange between leaders from Ecobank, Mastercard Foundation, RSwitch, and NCBA, addressing how credit affordability, digital lending, and regulation can converge to build a more resilient financial system. The conference also welcomed participation from regional actors like the Kenya Bankers Association, reinforcing East Africa’s shared priorities in building competitive and inclusive financial systems. Looking Forward The conference is expected to yield several concrete outputs: Policy Recommendations for improving credit access and market efficiency; Strategic Frameworks to guide institutions in navigating digital transformation; Research Publications to inform continued academic and institutional inquiry; Stakeholder Collaborations that support MSME lending and financial inclusion . By exploring the intersection of technology, regulation, and competition, the 2025 RBA Research Conference reaffirmed Rwanda’s ambition to become a knowledge-driven financial hub.

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PRESS RELEASE: Rwanda Bankers’ Association convenes National Dialogue on Credit Market Dynamics at 2025 Research Conference