Benitha Pendeza

Benitha began trading maize flour sourced from Huye, but like many displaced entrepreneurs, she faced significant structural barriers. Limited capital meant she could not meet customer demand, even when opportunities existed. At the same time, limited access to business knowledge made it difficult to grow strategically.

Her journey began to change after connecting with Mukandayishimiye Christine, a Growth Guide under the Kataza Program. Through targeted coaching and practical training, Benitha gained essential skills in customer care, business management, and financial readiness. She shifted from simply selling products to building strong relationships with her customers, improving trust and retention.

With Christine’s guidance, Benitha was also supported to navigate access to finance, an area often out of reach for refugees. After preparing her application and meeting the requirements, she successfully secured a Rwf 5,000,000 loan through a SACCO.

This milestone marked a turning point. With increased capital, she was able to expand her stock significantly, ensuring she could consistently meet customer demand—something that had previously limited her growth.

“A loan helped me grow my business because I can now meet the demand of my customers,” she shares.

Today, Benitha is running a more stable and growing enterprise, contributing to her household income and strengthening her family’s resilience. Her journey reflects more than business growth, it represents a shift from vulnerability to agency, confidence, and economic participation, even within the constraints of refugee life.

Her story highlights how inclusive access to training and finance, especially for refugees and marginalized groups—can unlock real transformation.

Her message to fellow entrepreneurs:

Do not be afraid to work with financial institutions. Understand your needs, prepare well, and use loans wisely to grow your business.

Her message to young people, especially those in vulnerable situations:

Start with what you have and keep going. Even small steps can grow into something bigger.