46% of People with Disabilities in Rwanda Lack Access to Bank Loans

Kigali, February 20, 2026 - A recent consultative meeting organized by Access to Finance Rwanda (AFR) revealed that 46% of people with disabilities in Rwanda do not have access to bank and financial services, highlighting persistent barriers to financial inclusion. The meeting, held on February 19, 2026, brought together government agencies, financial institutions, development partners, non-profits, civil society, and disability associations to discuss findings from an AFR survey on financial accessibility for people with disabilities. Key Findings The proportion of people with disabilities unable to apply for bank loans rose from 36.3% in 2020 to 46.6% in 2024. Overall access to financial services has decreased, despite 92.9% of those surveyed reportedly being reached by some services. Key obstacles include lack of collateral, limited trust from banks, and insufficient staff trained to communicate with people with hearing or visual impairments. Voices from the Community Ingabire Mukamurenzi Francine, a blind entrepreneur, shared her experience: “Banks generally do not trust people with disabilities, and there are no special programs for us like there are for youth or women. I had to approach Urwego Finance to secure a loan to expand my business, and they have supported me ever since.” Dr. Mukarwego Beth Nasiforo, head of the Rwandan Network of People with Disabilities (NUDOR), emphasized that perceptions and lack of awareness among financial institution employees hinder access for people with disabilities. Emmanuel Ndayisaba, Executive Secretary of the National Council for Persons with Disabilities (NCPD), highlighted the broader impact: “When people with disabilities are given access to financial services, they contribute to business development, employment creation, innovation, and national development.” The meeting underscored the urgent need for targeted financial programs and inclusive policies to ensure that people with disabilities can fully participate in Rwanda’s economic growth.