n a continued effort to promote financial inclusion and strengthen the agricultural sector, a visit was conducted to the Gwiza Farmers’ Cooperative located in Rwamagana District. The engagement focused on identifying practical solutions to improve farmers’ access to financing, enabling them to expand and modernize their agricultural activities.

Access to affordable credit remains a critical challenge for many farmers, often limiting productivity and growth. Through direct dialogue with cooperative members, key insights were gathered on the financial barriers they face, as well as opportunities to design tailored financial solutions that respond to their needs.

As part of this initiative, approximately 400 cooperative members were successfully onboarded through the opening of individual bank accounts. This milestone represents a significant step toward integrating farmers into the formal financial system, enhancing their ability to save, transact, and access credit facilities.

In addition, the Gwiza Cooperative was equipped with Agency Banking services. This development is expected to bring financial services closer to the community, reducing the need for long-distance travel and improving convenience for members. By decentralizing banking services, the initiative aims to foster greater financial participation and efficiency within the cooperative.

Recognizing the strategic importance of agriculture to national development, a firm commitment has been made to allocate 30 percent of the loan portfolio to the agricultural sector. This targeted investment underscores the sector’s role as a cornerstone of economic growth, food security, and livelihoods.

This initiative marks the beginning of a broader journey to reach farmers across different regions and to support the entire agricultural value chain from production to market access. By strengthening partnerships with cooperatives and leveraging innovative financial solutions, the goal is to build a more inclusive and resilient agricultural ecosystem.

Through sustained collaboration and investment, stakeholders are working together to create a prosperous future for agriculture, empowering farmers and contributing to long-term national development.