Bank of Kigali WASH Initiative

To accelerate Rwanda’s journey toward universal access to clean water and sanitation, the Bank of Kigali (BK) has launched a groundbreaking WASH loan product in collaboration with UNICEF and Water For People. This initiative is part of Isoko y'Ubuzima, a five-year flagship program led by Water For People that focuses on strengthening WASH systems at both national and district levels. The program aims to improve governance and unlock private sector participation to ensure sustainable and inclusive water and sanitation services across the country. UNICEF continues to play a vital role in supporting Rwanda’s development goals by ensuring access to essential services such as healthcare, education, clean water, sanitation, and protection from violence and exploitation. Their involvement in this initiative highlights the importance of multi-sectoral collaboration to address the country’s WASH challenges. The newly launched WASH loan product offers flexible financing options for businesses and organizations investing in water and sanitation solutions. Loans range from Rwf50 million to Rwf500 million, with a repayment period of up to five years and interest rates between 10% and 14%. Eligible investments include community-based water supply systems, water micro-entrepreneurship ventures, and small-scale water utility expansion projects—all designed to strengthen local infrastructure and improve access to clean water. The product was officially unveiled on June 20, 2025, during a high-level event held at the Kigali Serena Hotel. The launch brought together more than 100 key stakeholders from government institutions, financial entities, development partners, and the private sector. Among the notable participants was AYATEKE, a leading enterprise in Rwanda’s water and sanitation sector. AYATEKE’s presence at the event underscored the growing commitment of local innovators and entrepreneurs to harness financing opportunities and scale up impactful WASH solutions. This initiative marks a significant step forward in bridging Rwanda’s WASH financing gap and empowering communities with the resources they need to thrive. By mobilizing private sector investment and fostering strategic partnerships, the Bank of Kigali and its collaborators are paving the way for a healthier, more resilient future for all Rwandans.