International Labour Organization fostering enterprises and shaping Rwanda’s digital future

Rwanda (ILO News) - As part of the International Labour Organization (ILO's) boosting decent jobs and enhancing skills for youth in Rwanda project, funded by the Directorate for Development Cooperation and Humanitarian Affairs of Luxembourg, the ILO successfully conducted the Start and Improve Your Business and Digitalise Your Business (SIYB-DYB) Training of Trainers (ToT) program from November 18 to December 6, 2024.A total of 32 trainers completed the program and received certificates of completion, along with access to the ILO-SIYB Gateway.

group photo of beneficiaries on enterprise training

The selected trainers, comprising civil servants and entrepreneurship hub facilitators, represent a diverse range of organizations, including:

• The Chief Skills Office of the Ministry of Public Service and Labour,
• Hanga Hubs under the Ministry of ICT and Innovation,
• The Business Development Fund,
• The Rwanda Institute of Cooperatives, Entrepreneurship and Microfinance (RICEM) under the Ministry of Commerce,
• The Private Sector Federation, and
• The ICT Chamber.

Over the three-week training program, participants focused on developing skills to support entrepreneurs in the digital economy. They gained practical knowledge in building an online business presence, including website creation, social media engagement, and digital branding.

ILO Project Manager Fatima Elsanousi with a program beneficiary and trainer, celebrating empowerment through skills development

The program also equipped participants with strategies for selling products and services online, utilizing social media platforms, online marketplaces, and e-commerce solutions. Furthermore, they explored the digitalization of key business processes such as payments, inventory management, and supply chain operations, preparing them to guide entrepreneurs in leveraging technology for business growth.

Beneficiaries actively engage in teamwork during the enterprise training workshop

The training emphasized interactive learning through role-plays, case studies, and the SIYB Business Game. Trainers also honed their adult facilitation techniques, enhancing their ability to deliver impactful training sessions. By the end of the program, participants were certified and registered on the ILO-SIYB Gateway, affirming their readiness to support entrepreneurs.

As part of the certification process, each trainer has committed to conducting two rounds of Training of Entrepreneurs. This initiative is expected to support the creation of at least 1,200 new businesses across districts such as Nyagatare, Kayonza, Kigali, Musanze, Rubavu, Rusizi, Ruhango, and Huye.

Looking ahead, the trainers have developed actionable plans to implement SIYB-DYB programs throughout Rwanda. Their efforts aim to foster a resilient and digitally empowered entrepreneurial ecosystem. By focusing on youth, women, and marginalized groups, these trainers are making significant contributions to the growth of Rwanda's digital economy.

Stay tuned for updates on how these dedicated trainers are driving Rwanda's digital transformation!

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