In a statement released on July 31, 2025, the Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning (MINECOFIN) said the merger seeks to combine BDF’s expertise in supporting Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) with BRD’s experience in large-scale financing, industry partnerships, and institutional governance.

According to MINECOFIN, the integration is expected to bring tangible benefits to entrepreneurs and investors by accelerating access to credit, reducing loan processing time, and easing the application process for those seeking financing through commercial banks and microfinance institutions.

The new framework will offer client-tailored financial products that cater to startups, growing businesses, and large investment projects. It will also help expand financial service delivery across the country, including in rural areas, using digital platforms.

These changes mark a significant step toward improving private sector financing and align with Rwanda’s National Strategy for Transformation (NST1) and Vision 2050, both of which emphasize inclusive economic growth.

To date, BDF has supported over 40,000 projects, while BRD has financed initiatives in agriculture, manufacturing, and infrastructure development. Their merger is expected to create a more effective financing institution that supports Rwanda’s long-term development goals.

The newly integrated institution will continue as Rwanda’s principal credit provider, playing a pivotal role in advancing inclusive economic development. The government expects this merger to unlock more investment opportunities and ease access to capital for a wider range of Rwandans.