May 22, 2025 marked a significant milestone as Access to Finance Rwanda (AFR) was officially welcomed as the 15th member of Women in Finance Rwanda. In a strong show of commitment to advancing gender equality within the financial sector, the organization also signed the Gender Charter underscoring its ongoing commitment to fostering a more inclusive and equitable financial industry.

Adding to the celebration, four outstanding scholars were awarded scholarships by The Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment (The CISI) , reinforcing the shared mission of empowering the next generation of financial leaders.

Jean Bosco Iyacu , CEO at Access to Finance Rwanda (AFR) mentioned that while individual institutions may know their internal figures, there’s a real gap in sector-wide data. We don’t fully understand the challenges women face that limit their progress or worse, push them out of the sector altogether.

He added: “This charter is not symbolic, it’s a reaffirmation that we’re still on the journey. We haven’t yet arrived.”

Diane Karusisi CEO Bank of Kigali Plc who graced the ceremony noted that the CISI certification programme has already had a measurable impact. One of the four scholarship recipients from the Bank of Kigali’s previous cohort has since been promoted to a managerial role.

“That’s a clear example of the tangible impact this programme is having on women’s careers.”Diane remarked.