The Rwanda Green Fund and I&M Bank Rwanda have announced a strategic partnership designed to advance sustainable agriculture and support the next generation of agri-innovators through the #AgriTech4Rwanda Innovation Challenge.
The collaboration aims to empower small and medium-sized agribusinesses by combining climate-smart financing, operational capacity building, and climate risk insurance. These measures are intended to strengthen agribusiness resilience, protect livelihoods, and ensure the long-term sustainability of investments in the agricultural sector.
“Partnering with the Rwanda Green Fund shows what’s possible when public & private institutions combine strengths. SMEs drive Rwanda’s growth, and by equipping them with finance, technology & climate resilience, we strengthen the entire agricultural ecosystem,” said Mr. Benjamin Mutimura, CEO of I&M Bank.
Blended Finance: Unlocking Investment for Agriculture
A key feature of this partnership is the use of blended finance, which strategically leverages public or concessional funds to attract private investment into sectors essential for development but often perceived as high risk. In agriculture, where climate shocks and market volatility discourage traditional lending, blended finance de-risks investments and unlocks capital for innovations that might otherwise remain unfunded.
By adopting this model, Rwanda can mobilize both public and private resources to accelerate the growth of climate-smart agri-businesses and support a thriving ecosystem of innovation.
Climate-Smart Agriculture: Building Resilient, Sustainable Farming
Climate-smart agriculture (CSA) is an approach that aims to increase productivity while enhancing resilience to climate change and reducing environmental impacts. CSA encompasses practices such as drought-resistant crops, improved irrigation systems, soil conservation, and climate risk insurance — all designed to safeguard farmers against unpredictable weather and market fluctuations.
In Rwanda and across Africa, agriculture is not just an economic activity; it is the backbone of livelihoods and food security. Strengthening its resilience ensures stable incomes, protects ecosystems, and provides a foundation for long-term economic growth.
Why This Deal is a Game Changer
Experts say the Rwanda Green Fund–I&M Bank partnership is transformative because it goes beyond financing. By integrating funding, technical support, and risk mitigation, they state that it creates the conditions for innovation, scale, and sustainable impact. It enables young agripreneurs and SMEs to adopt climate-smart solutions, experiment with new technologies, and grow businesses that are both profitable and environmentally responsible.
This collaboration also signals a broader shift in Rwanda’s development strategy, highlighting the role of public-private partnerships in driving green growth and climate resilience. By combining expertise and resources from both sectors, the initiative provides a blueprint for other countries seeking to boost agricultural productivity while mitigating climate risks.
Looking Ahead
Through this partnership, the Rwanda Green Fund and I&M Bank are laying the groundwork for a resilient, inclusive, and innovation-driven agricultural sector. The initiative promises to reach communities, businesses, and future generations, demonstrating how strategic investments and innovative finance can transform agriculture into a driver of sustainable development.
Rwanda’s experience with this blended finance approach may serve as a model for the Great Lakes region, illustrating how thoughtful partnerships can accelerate climate-smart agriculture, strengthen food security, and foster inclusive economic growth.
