{{About thirty Services Providers have concluded a one week training aimed at helping in assessing the effectiveness of SMEs and refine business plans of Entrepreneurs through the Hanga Umurimo Program.}}
The training was organised by the Ministry of Trade and Industry in the partnership with International Finance Corporation (IFC).
It sought to encourage employment creation and growth of SMEs through a nationwide project competition that culminating in selected SMEs accessing finance by local banks covered by a nationwide guarantee fund.
“The pilot project has been successful; we remarked that many people are committed to develop the culture of entrepreneurship to increase of the number, and size of enterprises, employment, exports and the taxpaying.”Alex Ruzibukira, the Director General in charge of Industry and SMEs Development , MINICOM, said.
Tony Francis Ntore, IFC Associate Operations officer commended the results of the pilot phase.
He noted that the second phase should benefit from lessons learnt including a strong data base management system developed with an independent specialized firm to ensure that SMEs in the Program are monitored over time, as we open up access to key stakeholders (banks, fund managers) to maximize on efficiency, effectiveness and sustainability.
According to Damien Bazimaziki of Rubavu District, trainees are ready to mentor local entrepreneurs in improving their business ideas and train them in business plan writing and provide business management skills.
IFC, a member of the World Bank Group, helps developing countries achieve sustainable growth by financing investment, mobilizing capital in international financial markets, and providing advisory services to businesses and governments.
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