Hanga Umurimo projects need constant follow-up

Editor,Refer to Kenneth Agutamba’s article, “Hanga Umurimo can be funded without bank loans” (Sunday Times, December 29).What the writer proposes sounds sensible and quite simple. And in my view, all of the three options can perhaps be used.I thank The New Times for showing us that media cant only be used to criticise but also to present options or solutions to issues at hand. That’s what this article is all about.I am not sure how the Government of Rwanda is going to treat these ideas, but I think they are worth considering.Kenneth also makes a good case for banks because in previous reports on this subject, they have been portrayed as devils but in this case the writer kind of played the “devil’s advocate”. I thank you once more for that as well.Gerald, Rwanda*******************What a great article! The commentary provides very helpful tips that are worth considering. The author has made a neat presentation on Hanga Umurimo, skillfully exposing how people endeavour to run lucrative projects, yet they lack initial capital.The Government should build good collaboration with banks to support the success of the Hanga Umurimo initiative. As stated, indeed in case banks seem reluctant to offer loans to entrepreneurs, Agaciro Development Fund should chip in provided that the borrowers’ business is profitable and sustainable, guaranteeing reimbursement of the money.By so doing, Rwanda entrepreneurship sector will be boosted and development assured with the increased job creation.Emmanuel Ntirenganya, Kigali*******************There is definitely a challenge in Hanga Umurimo programme. The Ministry of Trade and Industry (Minicom) helps people with projects to get loans from commercial banks, but once the loan is secured, Minicom and banks do not do the necessary follow-up and evaluation to see if the loan is used effectively or used for what it is intended.It is good to help people to acquire loans but it is more important to visit them, see their constraints and give advice and training where necessary.Many good projects, partially or totally, fail because people (owners of projects) lack guidance during the execution of their projects.Therefore, periodical follow-up and evaluation by Minicom and the banks is very crucial, because, especially to the latter, this will guarantee that their loans are fully serviced.Dudu, Kigali

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Hanga Umurimo projects need constant follow-up