Gakenke Steps Up Financial Empowerment: Leaders and Citizens Rally Behind EjoHeza Savings and Inclusive Financial Services

Gakenke district strengthen financial security among residents, the Vice Mayor of Gakenke District in charge of Economic Development, Aimé Niyonsenga, intensify public awareness about long-term savings through the EjoHeza Scheme while also improving access to financial services across the district, particularly under the Financial Services component of the Vision 2020 Umurenge Programme.

Local leaders and stakeholders who exchanged ideas and agreed on concrete strategies to increase the level of long-term savings and financial inclusion in the district. Participants emphasized that continuous community mobilization and awareness campaigns are essential to ensure that more residents understand the benefits of saving for their future and using formal financial services.

Vice Mayor Aimé Niyonsenga highlighted that programs such as EjoHeza Long Term Savings Scheme play a crucial role in helping citizens especially those working in the informal sector secure their financial future. He urged local leaders to strengthen mobilization efforts at village and sector levels so that every household understands the value of saving regularly, even with small contributions.

Participants agreed that improving financial literacy and encouraging citizens to join savings schemes can significantly contribute to economic resilience and household stability.

Residents themselves expressed growing awareness of the importance of long-term savings. Jean Damascène, a resident from Gakenke who has joined the EjoHeza Long Term Savings Scheme, said the awareness campaigns have helped him understand the importance of planning financially for the future.

“Before, many of us believed that saving was only possible for people with large income, but now we understand that even small contributions made consistently can help us build a secure future for our families.” He explained.

Another resident, Odette Mukasine, said that access to financial services through the Vision 2020 Umurenge Programme Financial Services initiative has empowered many citizens in the district.

“These programs have changed the way we think about money, today we understand the importance of saving, using financial services, and planning ahead so that we can live better in the future.” she said.

Local leaders believe that strengthening financial awareness and encouraging participation in national savings programs will not only benefit individual households but also contribute to the broader economic development of Gakenke district.