The Local Administrative Entities Development Agency (LODA), in partnership with GIZ, RISA, and The Space Creation, has launched a nationwide campaign under the theme “My Phone, My Money” to promote the adoption of digital payments among Vision Umurenge Program (VUP) recipients.

The campaign, which began on August 19, 2025, in Burera District, continued in Nyamagabe District from August 21–22, and will head to Rusizi District from August 26–27, 2025.

Its primary aim is to encourage beneficiaries to link their SACCO accounts with registered SIM cards, enabling them to receive instant payment notifications, withdraw money conveniently, and use their phones for safe, efficient transactions.

At the community outreach held in Tare Sector, Nyamagabe District, the Vice Mayor in charge of Social Affairs, Agnès Uwamariya, stressed the importance of embracing this new approach.

“This digital payment method is simple and secure. It saves time and money that would otherwise be spent traveling to SACCOs. The safety of funds is guaranteed, and beneficiaries will no longer have to queue in long lines” she said.

Beneficiaries also expressed appreciation. Murekatete, a VUP recipient from Gasaka Sector, said: “Before, I wasted time going back and forth to the SACCO. Now, I will get my money easily and focus on productive work to improve my livelihood”.

From the SACCO perspective, Murekatete, a SACCO officer, added: “This initiative makes clients happy, and when they are happy, we are happy too. Linking accounts with phones brings SACCO services closer to households”.

Speaking on behalf of LODA, Mr. Maurice Nsabibaruta, Division Manager for Community Development and Coordination, emphasized that “Technology is the key that will accelerate the graduation of VUP recipients out of poverty. Payments will reach them on time, they can withdraw funds wherever they are, and without incurring extra costs”.

The campaign contributes to Rwanda’s broader vision under NST2 priorities, leveraging ICT to improve service delivery, enhance financial inclusion, and support beneficiaries on their graduation out of poverty journey.