Rwanda | About Us
VisionFund Rwanda (VFR) is one of the largest deposit-taking Microfinance Institutions (MFIs) in Rwanda with a mission to provide financial and non-financial services to underprivileged rural communities. VFR is a subsidiary of VisionFund International and began in 1997 as a World Vision microfinance program, and in 2004 became a Central Bank regulated MFI in Rwanda.
We provide microfinance products to empower the clients we serve, primarily vulnerable women with children and youth in rural areas. Our products provide financial services to strengthen Village Savings and Loans Associations (VSLAs) and groups. Our average loan size is US $235. Strategically, we are one of the biggest partners with World Vision Rwanda and Care International in Rwanda.
Our savings products include educational savings accounts for children and we are developing financial products targeting youth. VisionFund Rwanda’s eight branches serve the entire country. Ninety percent of our field officers' work is spent in rural areas meeting potential clients and groups. The introduction of digital solutions allows our loan officers to provide better access to financial services for our most remote clients.
History
VFR has supported clients since 1997 and now serves 10,654 active borrowers, creating 12,436 jobs, impacting 84,418 children. The outstanding portfolio is at $3,002,366 with 64% of female clients.
World Vision originally began its microfinance and saving programmes in 1993, but quickly realized the global need for microfinance and the immense role it played in reducing poverty. VisionFund International was then founded in 2003 as the microfinance provider for World Vision, to manage its network of affiliated MFIs.
Since then, VisionFund International has been lending money to people in need of financial services, helping them to start or grow sustainable businesses. Our clients use the income earned to build a better future for their children.
Management
Chief Executive Officer – Grace Dushimimana
Grace has over 13 years of experience with the VisionFund Rwanda finance department, she holds a bachelor’s degree in Business/ Economics from National University of Rwanda and has completed her Certified Public Accountants (CPA) professional course with Kenya Accountants and Secretaries National Examinations Board (KASNEB).
She has been promoted to various roles within the finance department including Head of Finance, Senior Accountant and Business Counselor in special projects.
- Head Of Operations – Theophile Nsabimana
- P&C Manager - Nirere Odette
- Head of Recovery, Legal and Compliance - Edith Mukakibibi
- Internal Audit Manager - Faustin Mucyo
- Head of Finance and Risk – Simeon Sibobugingo
- Head of IT- Dieudonne Maniraguha