The Local Administrative Entities Development Agency (LODA) has officially rolled out a digital payment system to support beneficiaries of the Vision 2020 Umurenge Program (VUP). The initiative was launched on August 30, 2025, in Mutete Sector, Gicumbi District, under the campaign theme “My Phone, My Money.”
The system is designed to allow beneficiaries to receive government support directly on their phones, significantly reducing the burden of traveling long distances to Savings and Credit Cooperatives (SACCOs) to withdraw funds. Previously, VUP beneficiaries including vulnerable elderly citizens, individuals engaged in public works, and those performing light labor were required to queue for hours at SACCO branches with passbooks in hand, which often wasted valuable time and slowed down their economic progress.
A Step towards inclusive Digital Development
Speaking at the launch, LODA’s Director General Claudine Nyinawagaga described the innovation as a milestone that puts citizens at the center of Rwanda’s digital transformation agenda.
“This is a big step forward. From today, you will no longer have to travel long distances or stand in long queues to withdraw your money. The funds will reach you directly and securely on your phone. You can then use them for their intended purpose without unnecessary delays. However, it is extremely important that you keep your PIN number secret do not share it with anyone so that you also play a role in safeguarding your money.”
She also emphasized how the system will help beneficiaries manage time and finances more effectively:
“If you used to spend two hours going to and from SACCO, now you gain that time. Many people used to withdraw all their money at once because they feared returning multiple times, which often led to unplanned spending. With this system, you can withdraw only what you need, when you need it, while keeping the rest safe.”
Beneficiaries welcome the change
The new approach has been widely welcomed by VUP beneficiaries in Mutete Sector.
Musengimana Clementine, one of the recipients, explained that the system would save her both time and resources:
“With SACCOs, I had to set aside specific time to withdraw money, and sometimes I would find long queues and be forced to return another day, which wasted even more time. Now I can just go to a nearby MTN agent, withdraw the amount I need instantly, and continue with my daily activities. I am also grateful that LODA has ensured even vulnerable citizens are not excluded from digital innovations.”
She added that she had taken the advice on security seriously:
“I will protect my PIN number as advised, because fraudsters are everywhere these days. This new system proves that VUP beneficiaries are being considered in national development and digital progress.”
Another beneficiary, Juvenal Nkurikiyumwami, echoed these views, highlighting the connection between time and money:
“People often say time is money, and now I see it clearly. Before, I wasted hours traveling to withdraw cash, but now I can do it in my neighborhood from an agent and spend my time on productive work. This system will help me grow further and leave poverty behind.”
Aligning with National Development Goals
Maurice Mugabowagahunde, the Governor of the Northern Province commended the initiative, noting that it is fully aligned with Rwanda’s long-term development strategies:
“This program reflects Rwanda’s vision under the National Strategy for Transformation (NST2), where the government prioritizes technology as a driver of economic growth, poverty eradication, and the promotion of a knowledge-based economy. It is a people-centered initiative that ensures no one is left behind.”
How the system works
To access their funds, VUP beneficiaries will use a simple USSD code. By dialing *541# on their mobile phones and following the instructions, they can either deposit or withdraw money from their accounts conveniently through mobile agents, without the need to travel to SACCO offices.
With the launch of this digital system, LODA and its partners hope to not only modernize service delivery but also empower citizens by saving them time, reducing unnecessary expenses, and ensuring that government support truly contributes to poverty reduction and long-term development.
