Sylvie Kayitesi had spent nearly two years chasing a goal that always seemed just out of reach – owning a dream car. Now, thanks to a new financing initiative, that ambition is no longer distant but firmly within sight. “I have been trying to save, but it seemed impossible,” said the Kigali-based company driver, reflecting on the high cost of vehicles, some priced at over Rwf40 million. But that narrative is beginning to change. Kayitesi is among the first beneficiaries of a newly launched five-year renewable partnership between BPR Bank Rwanda Plc and Volkswagen Mobility Solutions Rwanda, designed to empower women drivers with access to affordable vehicle financing. Unveiled on Tuesday, March 31, the initiative kicked off with 35 female drivers and is expected to expand steadily as more women join the programme — marking a significant step toward reshaping gender participation in Rwanda’s transport sector. ALSO READ: BPR Bank Rwanda Plc Wins “Bank of the Year – Rwanda” 2025 For Kayitesi, the initiative’s impact is immediate and personal — but also symbolic of a wider transformation underway. “This will help me generate more income and develop myself and others,” she said. Her story underscores a growing momentum among women entering and thriving in the transport industry. “Year by year, women are growing. This should encourage those who still think driving is for men,” she said. ALSO READ: FEATURED: BPR Bank Rwanda launches 'Ikamba' to empower women entrepreneurs Breaking barriers to ownership At the heart of the programme is a flexible financing model that lowers the entry barrier for women. Beneficiaries can make a down payment starting from 10 per cent, with options of 20 or 30 per cent for more favourable loan terms, while the remaining balance is repaid over up to five years. For Kayitesi, this is transformative. “Now I see it is possible. It will not just be about driving, but also owning,” she said. Her optimism reflects a broader shift the partnership aims to unlock — turning drivers into asset owners and income generators. Closing the gender gap in transport Speaking at the launch, BPR Rwanda Plc Managing Director Patience Mutesi said the initiative directly addresses long-standing barriers limiting women’s participation in male-dominated sectors. “More than half of Rwanda’s population are women, yet sectors like mechanics, construction and driving still have low female participation,” she said. She pointed to limited access to finance as a major obstacle, noting that empowering women economically has ripple effects beyond individual success. Mutesi underscored that women’s earnings often support families and contribute to community development, including education. She also urged beneficiaries to strengthen their financial discipline. “Banks are here to support your growth. Keeping clear records of your income will make it easier to access more financing in the future,” she said. Driving inclusion, powering opportunity For Serge Kamuhinda, the initiative goes beyond financing as it is about redefining the future of mobility in Rwanda. “Transport is essential to daily life. By empowering women, we are connecting them to opportunities and strengthening the sector,” he said. ALSO READ: President Kagame launches Volkswagen Mobility Solutions Rwanda Kamuhinda stated that Volkswagen Mobility Solutions Rwanda is targeting to raise women’s participation in its operations within the next five years, a move which implies long-term commitment to inclusivity. He added that the partnership with BPR reflects shared values and a sustained focus on women’s economic empowerment.
