Umutanguha Finance Company Plc (UFC)

Umutanguha Finance Company Plc (UFC) is a Rwandan microfinance institution dedicated to providing inclusive financial services across the country.

🏦 Background & Evolution

Established in 2003 by the widows’ association ICYUZUZO, UFC began as a savings and credit cooperative aimed at supporting rural widows and orphans through financial services and literacy training. In 2006, it transitioned into a union of five cooperatives, and by July 2013, it was licensed by the National Bank of Rwanda (BNR) as a limited liability company, allowing it to operate nationwide.

The name “Umutanguha” translates to “a friend who never deceives” in Kinyarwanda, reflecting the institution’s commitment to trust and reliability.

🌍 Mission, Vision & Values

• Mission: To offer sustainable and client-driven financial and non-financial services based on cooperative values, targeting financially excluded populations, especially farmers, entrepreneurs, women, and youth in rural areas.

• Vision: To be the leading microfinance institution contributing to increased household wealth, particularly in rural and peri-urban areas, through a combination of digital channels and an expanding branch network.Core Values: Inclusiveness, openness, client focus, mutual education, synergy between financial and non-financial services, unity, and cooperation among shareholders.

📊 Services & Clientele

UFC offers a range of financial products, including:

• Savings Accounts: Tailored for various client needs, including youth and low-income earners.

• Loan Products: Such as youth business loans, women’s empowerment loans, and general business loans.

• Digital Banking: Mobile banking services enabling clients to access their accounts 24/7.

As of recent reports, UFC serves approximately 6,000 clients through 11 branches, with a strong focus on rural areas, accounting for 96.1% of its customer base.

🏢 Governance & Leadership

UFC is governed by a Board of Directors responsible for setting strategic directions and ensuring good corporate governance. The current CEO, Mr. Noel Muhawenimana, has been leading the institution since August 6, 2021, overseeing its operations and strategic initiatives.

🤝 Partnerships & Shareholding

In 2023, FINAFRICA MICROFINANCE HOLDINGS, a subsidiary of GROUPE DUVAL, became a major shareholder in UFC, supporting its mission to expand financial inclusion in Rwanda.

📍 Head Office Address

Umutanguha Finance Company Plc (UFC)
House No. 177, KN2 Avenue
Opposite Nyamirambo Pele Stadium
Nyamirambo Sector, Nyarugenge District
P.O. Box 2998, Kigali, Rwanda

☎️ Contact Information

• Telephone: +250 788 387 730

• Email: info@ufinance.co.rw

• Website: www.ufinance.co.rw

🏦 Branch Network

UFC operates 23 branches and 1 outlet across Rwanda, including locations in Kigali and various provinces. Some branch contacts include:

• Nyamirambo Branch (Kigali): 0788 387 731

• Nyabugogo Branch (Kigali): 0788 387 732

• Musanze Branch (Northern Province): 0788 387 740

• Rubavu Branch (Western Province): 0788 387 739

• Huye Branch (Southern Province): 0788 387 748