In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, many entrepreneurs, like Manirafasha Jean Claude, faced unprecedented challenges. His agricultural business, once thriving, felt the full impact of the lockdown measures. Yet, amidst the uncertainty, Jean Claude's unwavering determination became a beacon of hope. His story mirrors the resilience and ingenuity of countless small businesses in Rwanda during these trying times.

Jean Claude's venture, the Smart Irrigation Akarima project, was severely affected when the government imposed a total lockdown in March 2020. With agriculture being the backbone of his business, the inability to tend to his land and harvest produce led to layoffs and a significant decrease in operations. 

“Our business had been in operation for 3 years with 3 permanent staff and 10 casual workers. We used to cultivate land and sow seeds and wait for the harvest that we would then sell to our clients. During COVID, our business was so affected because we couldn’t go to check on the land, harvest or even sell our produce. We had to lay off workers and remained with only 2. The situation was very difficult.” Jean Claude recalls.

However, shutting down was never an option for Jean Claude and his team. Their belief in a brighter future kept their entrepreneurial spirit alive.

In response to the dire economic situation caused by the pandemic, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Rwanda, in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment, initiated the Recovery Project for Youth and Women Enterprises (MSMEs). This project was specifically designed to support the recovery efforts of Rwanda's businesses, aligning with the UNDP Covid 2.0 program and the Rapid Financing Facility (RFF) guidelines.

When Jean Claude learned about the RFF grant, it felt like a lifeline. His Smart Irrigation Akarima project was chosen for support, leading to an unexpected turning point for his business. With the grant, they acquired essential resources, including 10 water tanks, which they sold to clients. 

“Today, we have sold tanks to over 200 clients. We were formerly 2 workers left but we are now 5 permanent workers, we have 10 part-time and employ 50 casual workers every month. This grant helped us grow.” Jean Claude.

Additionally, they diversified their business by introducing mobile kitchen gardens, collaborating with organizations like IMFURA Foundation & Umubyeyi Initiative to support teen mothers.

The RFF grant not only injected financial support but also provided training and innovative ideas. Armed with newfound knowledge, Jean Claude's team embraced digital transformation. They revamped their website and ventured into E-Commerce, recognizing the potential of online platforms. Through their website, customers could now order vegetables, sourced directly from their farm, and have them delivered, expanding their reach and impact.

“We understood that, today, everyone is on the internet and using their smartphones more than they watch televisions. So, we decided to use our website to help the business increase its sales and revenue ultimately. We started selling our produce through the website and today we even sell the harvest of other farmers.” Shares Jean Claude.

Today, Jean Claude's story stands as a testament to the power of perseverance, innovation, and community support. His monthly profits have soared, from 1million rwfs to 3million rwfs and his business, once struggling, is now thriving. More than just a tale of recovery, his journey showcases the transformative impact of initiatives like the Recovery Project for Youth and Women Enterprises (MSMEs). These programs not only aid in the recovery of businesses but also pave the way for their resurgence, offering opportunities for sustainable growth.

In the face of adversity, entrepreneurs like Jean Claude prove that with determination, support, and adaptability, businesses can not only survive but also flourish, even in the most challenging of times. His success story becomes an inspiration, highlighting the potential within every resilient entrepreneur striving for a better tomorrow.