The Development Bank of Rwanda (BRD Plc) has announced that it will assume all services previously provided by the Business Development Fund (BDF), effective December 31, 2025, following a government decision to integrate the two institutions. In a statement issued on December 29, BRD noted the transition is part of a broader strategy aimed at strengthening service delivery, improving efficiency and expanding access to finance for businesses across the country. ALSO READ: BDF integrated into BRD as govt targets efficient business financing The integration was first announced by the Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning in July as part of efforts to create a stronger and more efficient development finance institution. BDF was established to support micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), particularly those lacking sufficient collateral to access bank loans, mainly through credit guarantees. Under the new arrangement, all former BDF clients will be served directly by BRD, with services accessed through the bank’s digital platform, online.brd.rw starting Wednesday, December 31, 2025. BRD said consolidating BDF services under one institution will streamline processes, strengthen coordination and ensure faster and clearer service delivery nationwide. ALSO READ: BRD secures global ISO certifications, strengthening client trust and service reliability “All loan applications, follow-ups and related inquiries will be handled by BRD,” the bank said in the statement, adding that the transition will not affect ongoing support or existing client arrangements. Existing BDF products, facilities and support mechanisms will continue, but will now be administered by BRD. Clients are expected to benefit from faster service, enhanced digital access and a broader national reach. Commenting on the transition, the Chief Executive Officer of BRD, Kampeta Sayinzoga said the move would enhance efficiency while maintaining continuity for clients. “This transition allows us to serve our clients more efficiently by bringing key services under one institution,” Sayinzoga said. “Our focus remains on supporting businesses with accessible and impactful financing that contributes to Rwanda’s economic growth.” ALSO READ: Committee set up to oversee BDF transition When announcing the integration, the government said the move combines BDF’s grassroots reach and focus on MSME financing with BRD’s infrastructure, sector expertise and large-scale lending capacity, in line with efforts to enhance access to finance for private sector development under the National Strategy for Transformation and Vision 2050.
