I&M Bank Rwanda has once again captured international attention, clinching two coveted honours at the Global Banking and Finance Review Awards 2025. The Bank was recognised as the Best SME Bank in Rwanda for the second consecutive year, alongside a new accolade as Best Retail Bank in Rwanda, achievements that industry observers say underscore its growing influence in the country’s financial sector. The double victory reflects a deliberate strategy that blends speed, innovation, and inclusivity. On the retail side, the Bank’s Karame campaign has been singled out for redefining customer service standards by guaranteeing a turnaround time of less than 24 hours. In a market where efficiency and accessibility are increasingly decisive factors, this commitment has not only distinguished I&M Bank but has also set a new benchmark for how retail banking is delivered in Rwanda. Customers now associate the brand with responsiveness and reliability, a perception that has been critical in earning global recognition. Commenting on the achievement, Benjamin Mutimura, CEO of I&M Bank Rwanda, said the recognition affirms the Bank’s vision of combining innovation with impact. “Customer delight remains central to our strategy, whether through products that remove barriers, services delivered in less than 24 hours, or solutions that empower SMEs. This progress is only possible in Rwanda’s enabling environment, and we thank the Government for its commitment to policies that strengthen businesses and support growth.” For SMEs, the Bank has stood out by tackling one of the most persistent barriers to growth: collateral. Through initiatives such as Agiserera, which provides tailored support to small businesses, and targeted financing for the education sector, I&M Bank has built a reputation as an enabler rather than a gatekeeper. By extending no-collateral support to promising entrepreneurs and enterprises, the Bank has kept many businesses afloat in an environment where access to credit remains a defining challenge. Judges have praised this approach, noting that it not only empowers individual entrepreneurs but also strengthens Rwanda’s broader economic ecosystem. The recognition from the Global Banking and Finance Review Awards reinforces I&M Bank Rwanda’s position as both a trusted retail provider and a champion for SMEs. As the institution continues to expand its offerings, the back-to-back honors suggest that its model of combining efficiency with inclusive financing will remain central to its growth—and to Rwanda’s.
