The Ministry of Youth and Arts, in partnership with its stakeholders, has launched a new fund called Aguka Youth Fund, aimed at supporting young people who already run small businesses but lack sufficient capital to expand.

Although the fund is still in its early stages and has not yet been rolled out nationwide, it started with an initial capital of Rwf 1.5 billion. Each applicant will be eligible to apply for a loan of up to Rwf 10 million, and any young person qualifies to apply.

The Minister of Youth and Arts, Jean Nepo Abdallah Utumatwishima, explained how the fund operates during an interview on KT Radio on Monday, March 2, 2026, encouraging young people to take advantage of the opportunity.

He said:

“Under the Aguka Youth Fund, any young person with a clear and viable business can apply for up to Rwf 10 million. The Government, in partnership with the Development Bank of Rwanda (BRD), will guarantee Rwf 9 million, while the applicant must demonstrate the ability to raise Rwf 1 million. This is a financial access mechanism designed for those who have started working as well as those who want to start. You can even help your child launch a business, knowing that after 3 to 5 months they can apply for funding to grow what they have started.”

The Minister further noted that there are also participants in the Youth Connect Awards who already run businesses but require additional capital to expand. Many of them are from rural areas. Winners at the district level receive a non-repayable grant of Rwf 1 million.

This program benefits between 270 and 280 young people annually and has been in operation since 2012.