by Alice Nkulikiyinka, Country Director Rwanda
Cooperation with Enabel
Originally, Enabel wanted to implement a project that would last only a few months. During the long evaluation process, BPN Rwanda was able to show that a few months is not enough to achieve sustainable results. They explained to Enabel the BPN approach and that the entrepreneurs also undergo behavioral change during the training. A few months is not enough to sustainably internalize an entrepreneurial mindset. Enabel was so convinced by this approach that they extended their original program for a few months to 3 years. We are proud that we finally won the tender and were allowed to start the Enabel project in 2021.
What is the Enabel project with BPN Rwanda?
Enabel goes beyond the promotion of individual entrepreneurs: The goal of Enabel is to advance and sustainably develop an entire industry. For this reason, all 75 entrepreneurs were selected exclusively from the construction industry. These include, for example, companies that manufacture bricks or other construction materials, quarries, etc.
These companies employ an average of 12 people, with the aim of doubling this number with the help of the BPN program and modernizing the way they work through the use of technology and improved working conditions. Enabel launched a "Call for Application", the selection of the 75 entrepreneurs was then taken over by BPN Rwanda. The selection requires a lot of know-how, both technical and based on experience. The BPN team in Rwanda was appropriately equipped for this and tackled this major task with flying colors.
Interim status and outlook
The first seminars with the selected contractors have already taken place in 2021. Each Enabel company has also been assigned a BPN coach, who is their personal contact person during the BPN program and provides advice. During the year, the training and coaching continues as it does for regular BPN entrepreneurs. The training does not differ from the regular BPN program. Only some industry-specific modules have been added.
Enabel very much appreciates the way BPN Rwanda works and is looking forward to further cooperation. The first feedback from the program participants is also positive and grateful.
For BPN Rwanda, the collaboration with Enabel enables a growth step. It allows us to build a strong and even larger team of business coaches, providing development opportunities within the team as well. This leads to more local talent being nurtured. BPN has become a recognized and valued development partner for the country of Rwanda. A large 10th anniversary celebration will be held in May. The anniversary celebration was not scheduled until this year due to Covid-19. BPN has been active in Rwanda since 2011.
