Opportunity Rwanda provides financial services for women in Rwanda pursuing their own entrepreneurial goals. Micro-loans and savings accounts are available to clients for both expanding their business and planning for the future.
The people and economy of Rwanda survived the destructive forces of war from 1990-1993 and a horrifying genocide in 1994. Although the country has been stable since then, 60% of the population lives below the poverty line of just $1.25 a day. Rwanda is one of the poorest countries in Africa, with the GDP per capita just $464 in 2008. 87% of Rwandans live in rural areas, with 29% of these households led by women.
Through training, savings, loans and training, women would gain the ability to provide for themselves and their families. In this way they would have the opportunity to rise above poverty through their own agency.
Not only would people be able to expand their businesses and increase profit through micro-loans, but they could save these profits in secure savings accounts. They would be able to earn interest and insure against hard times, breaking the cycle of poverty.
