Rubavu, Rwanda – 5th September 2024
In a recent visit to Rubavu District, technicians from ARDE/KUBAHO under the ‘AMAHORO N’ITERAMBERE’ project met with 25 women cross-border traders as part of the initiative’s commitment to empowering women involved in cross-border trade. This project, which targets 300 women, seeks to amplify their voices and enhance their ownership in shaping their communities’ future.
The meeting, held on 5th September, was part of the group’s regular monthly session, where the women:
- Repaid loans they had previously taken,
- Contributed their regular savings of 2000 RWF each,
- Applied for new loans,
- Exchanged crucial information on their work and trade experiences.
Yvonne,ARDE/KUBAHO staff having a conversation with the gathering
The gathering also provided a platform for testimonials from some of the beneficiaries, who highlighted the transformative impact of the project on their lives.
Testimonials from Beneficiaries
Yvonne Ingabire, one of the women traders, shared her gratitude to ARDE/KUBAHO for considering women in cross-border trade. “Before, I was working in harsh conditions with no capital or residence permit, which made life difficult for me and my children after my husband left. But after receiving a loan through the AMAHORO N’ITERAMBERE group, I can now trade in Congo without fear. The profits I made allowed me to secure my residence permit and grow my business, and even my husband has returned home. Life is taking a positive turn,” Ingabire said.
Jacqueline Beninka also expressed her appreciation for the project, particularly its emphasis on savings and credit culture. “Before joining the group, I didn’t have any capital and used to borrow money from Bavunjayi at high-interest rates, which would put me in financial strain. Thanks to the loan I received through AMAHORO N’ITERAMBERE, I can now work without any stress, and my life is starting to make sense.”
The group president, Ange Mbarushima, highlighted the value of the various trainings provided through the project. “We received essential training on human, women’s, and children’s rights, as well as economic rights. We also benefitted from having an expert from the Rwanda Revenue Authority (RRA) who educated us on tax issues and the use of EBM (Electronic Billing Machine), reducing the mistakes we used to make,” Mbarushima noted. She further emphasized how these interventions have led to a significant decrease in workplace conflicts between Rwandan and Congolese women involved in the project, allowing them to work in less stressful environments.
Promoting Peace and Development
The ‘AMAHORO N’ITERAMBERE’ project continues to make strides in fostering economic independence and peaceful collaboration among women traders in the Great Lakes Region. By providing access to credit, enhancing financial literacy, and addressing the rights and challenges of women in cross-border trade, the project is empowering women to take charge of their economic futures and contribute to the peace and development of their communities.
As the project progresses, ARDE/KUBAHO aims to extend its impact to even more women, ensuring that they have the tools and support necessary to thrive in the competitive cross-border trade environment.
