Survey of women-owned small and micro enterprises in Rwanda

This report provides baseline data on small, women-owned enterprises in Rwanda. It also explores perceptions of constraints to women business owners and determines the impact of market liberalization reforms on small business. The study involved surveys of 18 enterprises in Kigali and rural areas. Major findings include the following: (1) None of the interviewees had any interest in pursuing a commercial loan, due to high interest rates. (2) In general, the women lacked information about the nature and availability of loan programs for small and microenterprises. (3) Five of the respondents identified a need for improved business skills. (4) All of the women reported that market liberalization had increased prices. (5) None of the respondents perceived her gender as a handicap to being in business. In fact, most saw being a women as an advantage in business, since women are perceived as less of a threat to male counterparts and because they feel they are more self-reliant and capable of sacrifice than men. (6) Some of the businesses appeared to be struggling with the notion of competition, which is a new phenomenon in Rwanda. In many cases, selling prices remain constant among the sellers. The report includes case studies of the 18 enterprises surveyed.