Financial Empowerment and Agricultural Innovation in Rwanda
Strengthening Communities Through Savings and Loans
In addition to food security, we also witnessed the power of community-driven financial empowerment through Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs). These groups provide structured ways for farmers to save money, invest in their fields, and support one another in times of need.
What Are VSLAs?
A VSLA is a microcredit model under which 25-30 members meet in a self-managed group once a week to save and borrow money. Members can take out small loans to invest in income-generating activities or to cover essential expenses.
These self-managed savings groups offer individuals—especially women and smallholder farmers—access to financial services that would otherwise be out of reach. Members save their money in a safe and structured space, access small loans, and even obtain emergency insurance. These groups support and accelerate the Government of Rwanda’s efforts for integrated social protection, helping to end poverty while ensuring that no one is left behind.
Fostering an Intergenerational Approach to Financial Literacy
One of the most inspiring aspects of these savings groups is the growing involvement of young people. As more young members join, VSLAs are fostering an intergenerational approach to financial literacy, helping youth develop a savings culture early on. By learning to manage money, save for their future, and invest wisely, these young people are better equipped to plan for their futures and contribute to economic growth.
Beyond personal savings and loans, these groups also create a strong safety net for their members. Members contribute to a social fund, which is used to help one another during times of hardship—whether it’s covering medical expenses, supporting funeral costs, or contributing to celebrations such as weddings and births. This system fosters a deep sense of solidarity and ensures that no one in the community is left behind.
The meetings emphasize transparency and accountability, with members gathering in a circle each week to discuss deposits, loan requests, and withdrawals openly. This approach builds trust within the group and ensures that resources are used responsibly.
The Impact of Savings and Loans on Families
By participating in savings groups, families can:
✔ Invest in their farms to improve productivity
✔ Cover school expenses to educate their children
✔ Access emergency funds when unexpected expenses arise
✔ Support community members in times of hardship
These groups have proven to be highly effective in generating growth and building local capacity. Women who once struggled to provide for their families are now able to secure steady incomes, send their children to school, and plan for the future.
As we continue our Grow Hope Learning Tour, we are deeply moved by the resilience, solidarity, and determination of the communities we have met. These savings groups are not just financial initiatives—they are a testament to the strength of collective action in building a more hopeful and sustainable future.
Innovation in Agriculture: A Visit to RAB
Our visit to the Rwanda Agricultural Board (RAB) provided fascinating insight into the country’s efforts to improve food security through scientific innovation. We had the opportunity to see firsthand the potato seed value chain, a critical process in Rwanda’s agricultural development.
Potatoes are one of Rwanda’s most important food and cash crops, covering between 140,000 and 200,000 acres of land each season, which accounts for 3.9% of the country’s total cultivated land. With an annual per capita consumption of 145 kg, potatoes play a significant role in household nutrition and economic stability.
At RAB, we observed the different stages of potato seed production, from laboratory research to the open field:
Production of In-Vitro Plantlets: Breeder seed is produced in a tissue culture laboratory, ensuring genetic purity.
Mini-Tubers Production: Grown in screen houses under controlled conditions.
Pre-Basic Seed: A crucial step in multiplying seeds for large-scale production while maintaining genetic integrity.
Basic Seed: Descendent of breeder or pre-basic seed, grown under strict conditions to preserve variety characteristics.
Certified Seed: The final stage, used by farmers for ware potato production. Currently, 11 new potato varieties have been released by RAB, ensuring improved yields and disease resistance.
A Future of Hope and Possibility
The Grow Hope project is more than just an agricultural initiative—it is a testament to the power of partnership, knowledge-sharing, and community-led solutions. As we continue our journey, we are filled with gratitude for the opportunity to witness these transformative stories and to stand in solidarity with the farmers of Rwanda.
Stay tuned for more updates as we explore further into Rwanda’s rich landscapes and inspiring communities.