“I used to pack up my beans and maize in a hurry every time the clouds gathered, now I sell until I decide to go home.” 

Earlier this year, Dative started her journey as a rural Rwandan entrepreneur by opening a business in an open-air market. She was facing daily challenges. Theft, harsh weather, and insecurity made it nearly impossible to earn a stable income. “My goods were often damaged by the rain or spoiled under the hot sun,” she recalls.  

When she heard about the construction of the Akayange Market Hub, she couldn’t believe it. “We had never seen a covered market this big and well equipped,” she says.  

In just over a month at Akayange, Dative was able to pay school fees for her children, something she had struggled with for a long time. Now, her business is growing, and she’s able to support her family of five. 

Through her connections with Business Leader Development Program graduates, Dative has learned to save weekly. Their example has inspired her to join the next training cohort. “I’ve seen the difference it makes when people apply what they’ve learned,” she shares. 

Dative’s journey as a rural Rwandan entrepreneur is just one of many stories that show what’s possible when people are given a safe, dignified place to do business. You can make difference by donating to Kinvest and working with us.