Tracking finances to improve income at a catering business All Stories Petronilla Nzomo Position: Entrepreneur Company: Peca Catering Services Programme: Grow Your Business Country: Kenya Petronilla Nzomo started Peca Catering Services in 2012. As a new mother, she needed the extra income, so she turned her cooking hobby into a company. Operating in Kilifi County, Kenya, Petronilla employs 4 permanent, and 6-8 temporary staff, mostly youth. The company has a CSR programme in which they train youth in cooking and baking skills, to set them up for future employment. Petronilla learned about the AMI programme via a WhatsApp group, from another participant, and quickly signed up, eager to improve how she ran her business. She has been using the tools from the programme to focus her time on the most critical tasks, and to learn how to track her finances to make better decisions. “When I started the business, I was doing everything myself from marketing, shopping and cooking, but now I have learnt to delegate. 90% of what I was doing I have delegated and now I focus on the 10%,” she said. “I used to spend fast, often using client money to shop and counting the remainder as profit, but now I distinguish what I buy, from what the business buys, I record everything daily, in fact, in January, I started to officially pay myself.”

Back to News News Rwanda AMI Celebrates the Tourism and Hospitality Sector’s Impact in Rwanda 30 Sept 2022 Every year on 27 September, the world celebrates World Tourism Day to recognise the role tourism plays in economic growth through job creation and providing opportunities for communities to prosper. To mark World Tourism Day, the African Management Institute hosted an event at Norrsken Kigali House with its programme graduates, partners and industry stakeholders to share and celebrate the impact made through their programmes. The event was also an occasion for AMI to affirm its long-term commitment to empower businesses working in the sector by equipping them with needed skills and practical tools to grow. “Rwanda’s tourism and hospitality industry has been experiencing significant transformation and growth, providing high potential for employment opportunities to young Rwandans. AMI’s unique approach to entrepreneurship and business management training has been preparing businesses and their workforces for any challenging situation, enabled them to seize growth opportunities, and rethink tourism”, says Malik Shaffy, Country Manager at AMI. Over the last three years, AMI has supported businesses in Rwanda under the Mastercard Foundation’s Hanga Ahazaza initiative , which increases employment opportunities for young people while expanding the tourism and hospitality sector in Rwanda. Thanks to Entrepreneurship and Workplace Learning Programmes, Businesses bounced back strongly in 2021, and created jobs while others invested in their teams. AMI offered a range of programmes - open enrollment in the market, inhouse programmes with clients, and impact-driven programmes with partners focused on specific sectors to drive transformation, with the following results: Through AMI’s workplace learning programmes provided under the Hanga Ahazaza Initiative, Leaders, managers and professionals trained report that the skills acquired have improved their performance and that they are proud to contribute to the development of Rwanda’s tourism and hospitality industry. Patrick Twizeyimana - Sales & Marketing Manager, Sina Gerard Entreprise Urwibutso Nyirangarama has been working in the tourism and hospitality industry for eight years. He is currently working at Sina Gerard Entreprise Urwibutso in Nyirangarama in sales and marketing. Joining the industry was a dream come true for him. He participated in AMI’s Inspiring Managers programme to expand his managerial skills. Prioritisation, self-awareness and emotional management are among the most important skills gained from the programme. Patrick has also trained his colleagues on how to use different management tools from AMI. “Working in tourism and hospitality requires you to understand and show a high level of customer care and work with others in a conducive environment. AMI equipped me with those skills, and it’s really boosted my working spirit,” says Patrick. As Rwanda joins the world to celebrate World Tourism Day, he is proud of the progress made and his contribution to a growing sector. “I now see myself as someone who had a role in the sector’s journey to growth. Rwanda works hard to attract investors in this sector and people involved need to know that they have what it takes to succeed and offer good services,” adds Patrick. The Covid-19 pandemic had a significant impact on different sectors, and tourism and hospitality were no exception. Aime Habihirwe, a university graduate in Hospitality Management in Culinary Arts and now a Head Chief at Stafford Coffee Brewers Company found the pandemic particularly difficult. However, thanks to AMI’s workplace learning programme, he has gained professional skills and experience which have taken him to the next level in his career. “I gained skills that made me confident to do the work and effectively collaborate with colleagues by communicating positively and managing my emotions when making decisions. This helped me get promoted from an Assistant Chef to a Head Chef,” says Aime. Vanessa Kanyabutembo, a young Rwandan who has been in the tourism and hospitality sector for six years and who now works as the Head of the Front Office at White Stone Apartments, says that the skills acquired from AMI’s training helped her adjust to difficult situations, including Covid-19 pandemic. “Consistent learning is a necessity in this sector. With AMI’s workplace learning programme, I was able to visualise my future by identifying where I am now, where I want to be and what I need to do. Before, it was hard for me to adjust with the Covid-19 situation, but through the training, I managed to adapt to the new environment which has positively impacted my work. I’m excited to keep learning and contributing to the sector,” says Vanessa. Learn more about the African Management Institute and apply to join its entrepreneurship development and workplace learning programmes at africanmanagers.co m /rwanda . Article First Published on Igihe Media: AMI Celebrates the Tourism and Hospitality Sector’s Impact in Rwanda 51% of young adults and youth (below 35years old) trained under these programmes reported that they have gotten promoted, had salary increments or access to new job opportunities; 78% of senior leaders, managers & employees confirmed that they apply the learnings often on their day jobs and stated that their competency has improved 77% of Micro, Small and Medium-sized businesses trained through entrepreneurship programmes reported an increase in revenue in 2021

Back to News News Rwanda COVID-19 Relief and Recovery For Rwandan Entrepreneurs From AMI In Partnership with Mastercard Foundation 16 Nov 2020 Partnership will provide free business learning for 2,500 SMEs and entrepreneurs through virtual business growth and resilience programs in response to COVID-19 crisis Kigali, Rwanda – November 16 2020 – With the aim of enabling 2,500 Rwandan entrepreneurs to bounce back from the COVID-19 crisis, the Mastercard Foundation and the African Management Institute (AMI) have expanded their partnership in Rwanda with a new program. The partnership is part of the Mastercard Foundation’s COVID-19 Recovery and Resilience Program and builds on the two organizations’ work in Rwanda’s hospitality and tourism industry since 2019, under the Foundation’s Hanga Ahazaza initiative.Businesses from across the country will be eligible to apply for AMI’s free, virtual business recovery and growth programs, which will be delivered in Kinyarwanda, French, and English. AMI will offer its popular short one- month Business Survival Bootcamp as well as a longer six-month Survive to Thrive program to selected businesses. “AMI’s program have created an average of 3.1 jobs per SME and those supported report a 19% revenue increase on average. With proven results, an established presence in Kigali, and as one of the only business learning programs to offer support in Kinyarwanda, we believe AMI is uniquely qualified to support Rwandan businesses during these critical times,” said Diederik Wokke, Rwanda Country Manager for AMI. “During the COVID period, AMI’s virtual learning programs and mobile learning app have enabled us to reach thousands of small businesses across Africa, including in Rwanda. We’re excited to deepen our presence in Rwanda and to help businesses and entrepreneurs get their businesses back on track with the support of the Mastercard Foundation. ”AMI’s Business Survival Bootcamp is a one-month course designed to help businesses navigate the current crisis with access to interactive online workshops, online tools and guidance, and the opportunity to connect with other businesses. The more in-depth Survive to Thrive program is a six-month course which supports businesses to innovate, prepare for the future, and position themselves for renewed growth. Both programs aim to increase the number of businesses that survive the current crisis, saving jobs and creating new jobs opportunities, especially for women and youth.The first Business Survival Bootcamp will start in November 2020 followed by the first Survive to Thrive courses, which will start in the new year. All programs will be conducted in Kinyarwanda or English and will be fully virtual to be compliant with the ongoing COVID-19 measures at a national level. They also will be designed to accommodate the schedules of business owners.“Supporting economic recovery is one of our key areas of focus under the Mastercard Foundation Recovery and Resilience Program—and that means supporting small and medium-sized businesses, ” said Rica Rwigamba, Country Head at the Mastercard Foundation. “We’re thrilled to be expanding our partnership with AMI to offer entrepreneurs the tools and knowledge they need not just to rebound from the COVID-19 crisis, but to emerge more resilient. ”AMI is accepting applications for both the Survival Bootcamp and the Survive to Thrive program and encourages applications and inquiries from all Rwandan business owners.Businesses and entrepreneurs can apply for the programs at www.africanmanagers.co m /rwanda . About AMI AMI enables ambitious businesses across Africa to thrive, through practical tools and training. We equip entrepreneurs with tools to build their business, help companies train their teams and run work readiness programmes for young people starting their careers. AMI’s programmes combine online and mobile tools with in-person workshops and on-the-job practice and support. During the COVID period AMI is delivering fully virtual programming across the continent.AMI has worked with a range of businesses and organisations to support entrepreneurs and managers build and grow their businesses across Africa including Uber, Nestle, Radisson Blu, Mastercard Foundation, USAID, Shell Foundation and Equity Bank. AMI has directly trained over 30,000 people in over 30 countries.AMI has offices in Nairobi, Kenya, Kigali, Rwanda, and Johannesburg, South Africa.For more information on AMI visit: www.africanmanagers.com About the Mastercard Foundation The Mastercard Foundation works with visionary organizations to enable young people in Africa and in Indigenous communities in Canada to access dignified and fulfilling work. It is one of the largest, private foundations in the world with a mission to advance learning and promote financial inclusion to create an inclusive and equitable world. The Foundation was created by Mastercard in 2006 as an independent organization with its own Board of Directors and management.For more information on the Foundation, please visit: www.mastercardfdn.org

An artist builds his business skills All Stories Njabulo Johnson Position: Entrepreneur Company: Programme: Start Your Business Country: South Africa Njabulo Johnson had been working as an artist and entrepreneur in Durham, South Africa, when a friend told him about a business planning programme offered by AMI. He saw this as a great opportunity to expand his skill set. “Sometimes with business you get so focused within the business that you don’t keep an open mind,” he explains. “So I just wanted to be informed and see what other opportunities are out there.” Njabulo appreciated how the programme delved into the practices of running a business, particularly helping him with goal-setting, customer management, and networking. “It was very useful because it forces you to focus on each aspect of your business,” he explains. The flexibility of the online courses also worked well for Njabulo. “You can do the course while running your business,” he says. “You can log onto the course any time when you have free time.” Njabulo has no regrets about joining the AMI programme. “I would definitely recommend this programme for other entrepreneurs. You get to find out your skills, what skills you can improve on your business. I think information is power, and the more you know, the more you can develop your business.”

Driving your business forward and making community impact All Stories Claudine Niyonzima Position: Co-founder Company: San Tech Ltd Programme: Country: Rwanda “I have learned that when a business is well managed, it cannot fail, and knowing your customers and their needs is the foundation of your business’s success.” Claudine Niyonzima is an entrepreneur and co-founder of SAN Tech, a smart application and networking technology service provider based in Rwanda that equips young IT technicians, especially young women, with innovation and development skills. She is one of the African Management Institute’s Resilience Prize winners. AMI caught up with her to discuss how winning the Prize and joining the Business Survival Bootcamp and Survive to Thrive programme took her business to new heights. Founded in 2019, SAN Tech was born from a thought that Claudine and her colleagues had back at university to make their skills profitable. Beyond developing computer applications and repairing computers, SAN Tech has established a Tech Hub to provide students with training, internships, and career guidance to contribute to Rwanda’s ICT sector. Claudine believes that their X-Factor is being able to not only equip students with entrepreneurial skills but also create learning opportunities for them, which is a launch pad for their innovation. After completing AMI’s one-month Business Survival Bootcamp and a three-month Survive to Thrive programme, both fully covered by Mastercard Foundation, Claudine says that these programmes have given the business a clear purpose. “They trained us on setting smart goals as an entrepreneur. This enlightened me about identifying monthly profit and loss in the business as well as identifying which side is more profitable than others, thus identifying where to put a lot of effort. Last but not least, having goals helped me to know how to manage and best use our business assets,” Claudine says. Claudine adds that the programmes not only equipped her with goal setting skills but also provided her with effective problem solving tools designed to help entrepreneurs address internal challenges or customers’ complaints. “Whenever we have a pressing business issue, we use these tools to analyse and understand the root cause. This helps us to come up with an effective solution,” she says. In mid-2022, Claudine won the AMI Resilience Prize representing the City of Kigali thanks to her business growth and its impact on the community. Through the Prize, Claudine received Rwf 1,000,000 to invest in the business – an opportunity she describes as a game changer. She encourages and urges other entrepreneurs to join one of African Management Institute’s programmes in Rwanda. She believes these programmes will play an important role in her business success. “My message to fellow entrepreneurs is that AMI has different programmes designed to help their businesses thrive and reach new heights. That’s why I would encourage them to apply and take advantage of this opportunity,” says Claudine. With the aim of enabling 2,500 Rwandan entrepreneurs to bounce back from the COVID-19 crisis, the Mastercard Foundation and the African Management Institute (AMI) expanded their partnership in Rwanda with new entrepreneurship development programmes, namely Business Survival Bootcamp, Survive to Thrive and Take Your Business Online. Through the support provided to entrepreneurs, Claudine and other graduates have been able to make their business stay on its feet and increase revenues. To learn more about the African Management Institute and its work in Rwanda, visit www.africanmanagers.org/ami-rwanda .

A young manager gains skills and confidence All Stories Abigail Goschen Position: Operations manager Company: UCook Programme: Management Development Programme Country: South Africa As the operations manager for UCook, a meal kit delivery service in South Africa, Abigail Goschen is responsible for supervising more than 40 employees. The start-up’s team is young, requiring significant guidance and motivation from Abigail—who is a fairly young manager herself. Then she joined a six-month Management Development programme by AMI. “I think what really interested me about the AMI programme was just learning more about managing people,” explains Abigail. She had heard of some of the concepts in the course but hadn’t known how to put them into practice. “Learning it properly and being more aware of it gave me more confidence.” Through AMI’s signature blended learning approach, which integrates in-person workshops with peer support and online courses, every participating company saw tangible improvements in the performance of their staff. 97% of participants said they applied what they learned at work. “What I really enjoyed about it was the fact that it was quite a hands-on approach, which I would definitely recommend,” says Abigail.

Powering the M-Gas growth force in Kenya with management skills All Stories Faith Maranga Position: Company: MGAS Programme: Country: Kenya Nine years ago, in the tropical leafy neighbourhoods of Dar es Salaam, Andron Mendes needed to refill his cooking gas for his new family. The cost was expensive. Able to afford the refill, he wondered how families without the resources could afford the cost when faced with a similar decision. With that thought, Tanzania’s KopaGas was born as an idea. It became a reality when he started working with mechanical engineer Sebastian Rodriguez-Sanchez to make a pay-as-you-go cooking gas service. By 2018, KopaGas was making sales and history in Tanzania, selling the company to United Kingdom-based Circle Gas. At the time the acquisition was heralded as “the largest ever pure private equity investment in the clean cooking technology sector.” Circle Gas, which now operates M-Gas Solutions (formerly KopaGas) in Tanzania and M-Gas in Kenya, is known for the innovations Mendes and Rodriquez-Sanches led to develop smarter meters for liquid propane gas (LPG) cylinders linked to payments made through East Africa’s robust mobile payment services. In Kenya, M-Gas has a strategic operating agreement with Safaricom.The expansion that happened since 2018, across Tanzania and into Kenya, also came with rapid growth in management teams more specifically for the Kenyan team. The company has gone from 50 employees in 2020 to 1200 by July 2022 in just the last year and a half. This expansion to Kenya in January 2020, came with its own challenges, happening just as the unexpected global pandemic reached East Africa. And yet, despite Covid, demand for M-Gas’ products remained high and the company adapted and continued operations. That’s when M-Gas turned to AMI to support and power up their growing workforce.AMI collaborated with M-Gas to deliver management training to 60 managers, with more signing up for the MDP. The programme focused on equipping their new and middle managers with the tools they needed to communicate effectively, problem solve, take ownership and accountability for their work, give and receive feedback and build strong teams. In addition to a customised core curriculum of in-person workshops and online courses through AMI’s online learning platform, the programme also featured an on-the-job project, also known as a change challenge, which is a practical project that allowed the participants to put into practice what they were learning while using practical resources provided to them to demonstrate their understanding. Through the programme the participants also received mentorship through an accountability partner model integrated as part of the programme. The impact on the M-Gas team was significant. 100% participants graduated from the programme where they reported improvement in their own performance as team members. “I was able to encourage task ownership and increase trust and collaboration within the team using the “Who’s got the monkey” and coaching tools. The growth mindset learning lab also helped me rethink my HSSE M-Gas presentation making the weekly TOOL BOX TALKS (TBT) meetings more exciting. Over a short time, the attendance increased from 100 attendees to 695 attendees,” said Anne Njoroge, the then Learning & Development Assistant at M-Gas who has since been promoted to HSSE officer after graduating from the AMI program. In addition, the team projects helped address real challenges in the organisation and even saw 42% participants report personal progress at work either through a salary increase, promotion or new job. “The overall team performance has improved which has led to improved customer experience and growth. The self-paced learning was amazing and I would absolutely recommend AMI,” concluded Maranga. For M-Gas in Kenya, the proof is in the results; to power the growth of your company you need to refill your tanks with the most important fuel, the skills to power your people.

How Kentaste’s Monica Njoroge, Achieved Success with AMI’s Leadership Development Program All Stories Monica Njoroge Position: Senior HR and Administration Manager Company: Kentaste Programme: Leadership Development Programme Country: Kenya Kentaste, East Africa’s leading producer of coconut products, has always been committed to fair trade and sustainable farming. Since 2014, the company has grown from a small family business in Kwale County to a key player in international markets, supplying healthy coconut products to Africa, the USA, Europe, and the Middle East. At the heart of Kentaste’s operations is Monica Njoroge, who oversees a diverse workforce of over 700 temporary staff and 150 permanent employees. As the Senior HR and Administration Manager, she enjoys coaching, mentoring, and nurturing talent within the company, while managing a wide range of responsibilities, from employee welfare to recruitment and retention. Given the vastness of Monica Njoroge’s role at Kentaste and her unwavering commitment to excellence, it was only natural that she sought to enhance her leadership skills. At first, she viewed the Leadership Development Programme as just another opportunity that came her way. But as she delved deeper into the programme, she quickly realized that it was helping her close critical gaps in her leadership approach. “I was terrified of taking on projects,” she admits. “But the programme was a lifesaver. It helped me get organized and gave me the confidence boost I needed to see it through,” she reflects. Curious to know how she achieved this transformation? Let’s explore her journey. Identifying Challenges and Seeking Growth “I love to help people figure out alternative ways of solving their problems,” Monica shares, revealing her deep passion for fostering a collaborative workplace. While she was already adept at creating a supportive environment where employees felt comfortable expressing themselves, she knew her project management skills and attention to detail needed sharpening. “I make stuff happen and always find a way, but I knew I needed a growth mindset and better organizational skills,” she admits. With this determination, Monica embarked on the Leadership Development Programme, eager to enhance her communication and decision-making abilities—critical skills for her role as Senior HR and Administration Manager. Embracing Transformational Learning “The program helped me strike a balance between empathy and firmness,” she reflects. This newfound balance wasn’t just theoretical; Monica put her learning into practice through the “Action Learning Project” addressing real-world challenges at Kentaste. The results were evident—team dynamics improved, and operational efficiency soared. She also began to see measurable improvements in her day-to-day responsibilities. “Clear planning and organization have significantly boosted my productivity,” she shares, reflecting on how the program sharpened her approach to leadership. Monica’s newfound leadership skills also impacted the company culture. “I became a better listener,” she says. “I could see things from different perspectives.” This empathy helped effectively support department heads in achieving their goals, driving a more efficient and aligned organization. Monica’s ability to distill complex ideas into simple, actionable insights became even more refined, enhancing her leadership approach. “I communicate well—I make complex things simple, whether it’s understanding the employees or speaking the language of every department,” she shares. Beyond her professional duties, Monica’s commitment to giving back to the community also found new expression. “I love to give back to the community in my little ways,” she says, and her enhanced leadership has inspired her team to engage in social obligations, whether it’s spending time at children’s homes or delivering motivational speeches. Looking back, Monica underscores the importance of the program’s focus on self-awareness and strategic thinking. Inspiring Leadership Excellence Monica’s journey is a powerful example of the transformative impact that leadership development can have on both individuals and organizations. Her advice to other businesses considering similar programs is clear and compelling: “Investing in employee training yields long-term benefits. It enhances organizational culture and fosters strategic leadership.” She stresses the importance of continuous learning in achieving leadership excellence, particularly in a dynamic industry like manufacturing. As organizations grapple with the evolving demands of global industries, Monica’s story stands as a powerful reminder of the transformative impact that leadership development can have on professional growth and organizational success. Her unique blend of professional rigor and personal empathy illustrates a holistic approach to leadership—one that benefits employees, the organization, and the broader community alike.

A customised learning experience designed for senior leaders, focused on developing advanced skills and behaviours essential for effective management of systemic change, high-level collaboration, and organization-wide performance. All Programmes Flagship Programme Leadership Development Programme A customised learning experience designed for senior leaders, focused on developing advanced skills and behaviours essential for effective management of systemic change, high-level collaboration, and organization-wide performance. Various (Live Virtual, In-Person or Hybrid) 8 - 12 Months Request Information Designed for Senior managers and leaders Learning Journey Phase 1: Understanding leadership in action Evaluating leadership styles Influencing: Why should people follow you? Phase 2: Change Management Phase 3: Empowering People Phase 4: Courageous conversations Phase 5: Managing change effectively Phase 6: Building a learning culture Phase 7: Motivating my people What's Included The 8-12 month blended programme includes: Seven 90-minute virtual learning lab workshops 9-video based online courses accessed through AMI's online learning platform and mobile app Practical tools and support to ensure on-the-job application to real workplace challenges Action Learning Project with coaching support Graduation event & AMI certification Custom Learning @ Scale Enterprise & Workplace Learning AMI Enterprise offers the Leadership Development Programme as a tailored solution for workplace learning, supporting teams of leaders within a company or organisation to learn and grow together virtually, in-person, or in a hybrid setting. Impact @ Scale Based on development needs, scope, and geographic reach, AMI Impact works alongside partners to design and deliver virtual, in-person and hybrid editions of the Leadership Development Programme to upskill and prepare leaders in sectors, communities of practice, or industries across Africa. Cohorts focus on working together to apply learning and Action Learning Projects to solve key challenges in specific focus areas. Guided & Supported Learning Journeys Explore AMI's Learning Approach Cohort-Based Groups of learners are guided by AMI’s facilitators through experiences that emphasize peer-to-peer learning, action learning projects, and networking. Tech-Enabled AMI’s web and mobile apps support learners anytime and anywhere with access to video content, downloadable tools and engagement, throughout their journey. Africa First Our approach and content is built for Africa’s ambitious professionals and teams. With content in 7 languages, African case studies, and experiences led by Africa’s finest facilitators, we put Africa first in everything we do. The Learning Labs were incredible—very interactive and practical. The content was highly relevant, not just theory, but real-life examples you can apply immediately. I loved that I could take what I learned, put it into practice, and see real, tangible results. Edwin Department Head AMI used its blended learning approach to ensure the programme translated into actual on-the-job practice and performance improvement. My sense is that the value generated from the team projects alone has more than paid for the programme itself. We’ve had a great experience with AMI over the last 4 years and consider them a valuable learning partner. Jesse Moore CEO and co-founder M-KOPA Connect with AMI to learn how this programme can unlock growth & performance. Learn More Ambitious learning for an ambitious Africa Whether you’re looking for workplace learning for five to five hundred, or customized programmes that drive impact locally or across Africa, AMI’s learning solutions are tailored to meet your unique needs. Connect with our learning advisors to discover how our ambitious learning programmes can help you achieve your ambitious goals. Connect with an AMI Learning Advisor Explore related programmes enrolling now AMI offers editions of this programme for open enrollment for individuals and smaller teams, in addition to offering our programmes at scale along side impact partners and workplace learning customers. Overview Effective leaders do more than demand performance—they inspire, collaborate, and drive results with behaviours that foster results. This programme equips leaders with the emotional intelligence, communication, and change management skills required to elevate teams and achieve tangible business outcomes. Participants don’t just read about how to become better leaders, they put new concepts and tools into practice through interactive learning labs, self-paced learning on AMI’s platform, and structured peer feedback to reinforce practical application. During the 8-12 month journey, leaders complete a collaborative Action Learning Project, applying AMI’s proven change management tools to solve real business challenges “on the job”. Professional coaches support the implementation of new leadership behaviours within the Action Learning Project framework. Guided by AMI’s expert facilitators, coaches, and learning managers, this flagship experience ensures leaders not only gain new skills but actively implement them—building stronger teams and driving organisational outcomes in real time. Key Outcomes Leadership Advancement Development of advanced leadership skills that inspire and guide teams effectively. Cultivation of a leadership mindset that encourages growth and innovation. Empowerment and Effective Communication Feedback and Nurturing Organizational Culture Change Management and Team Building Proficiency Focus Areas Building a learning culture Changing behaviour Courageous conversations Empowering your people Influencing others Leadership styles Managing change Motivation

Inspired Managers Keep Rwanda’s Hospitality and Tourism Industry Flying High All Case Studies Case Study Impact at Scale Inspired Managers Keep Rwanda’s Hospitality and Tourism Industry Flying High Background RwandAir, established in 2002, is one of Africa’s fastest-growing airlines, serving 26 global destinations. It promotes Rwanda as a luxury eco-tourism destination, contributing significantly to the hospitality and tourism sector, which represented 49% of the country’s GDP in Q4 2021. Challenge The COVID-19 pandemic grounded RwandAir’s fleet and workforce, impacting not just the bottom line due to reduced tourism and flights, but also the management of teams and productivity as remote work changed operations. Solution Seventy RwandAir leaders participated in AMI’s Inspiring Managers Programme to boost their skills in Rwanda's hospitality and tourism sector, focusing on better communication and team motivation to adapt to new work environments. Results Participants reported improved competencies, with 85% indicating enhanced skills after completing the programme. Managers learned to effectively delegate and share responsibilities, leading to better team efficiency and customer service delivery. When our team shifted to a hybrid work setup, we had fewer staff in the office while others worked remotely. By learning from the programme how to communicate effectively, I became confident to empower my teammates to accomplish their daily tasks properly irrespective of us being in the office Anthony Gatsinzi Cargo Planning and Pricing Manager RwandAir The story behind the journey As RwandAir returns to the skies and tourism slowly returns to pre-Covid levels, one thing passengers can count on is that behind the inspired RwandAir experience is an inspired manager. Over the last two decades, Rwanda has positioned itself as a leading luxury eco-tourism and events destination. RwandAir, the country’s national airline, has been central in promoting tourism and trade in the country. When Covid-19 hit, the RwandAir fleet and workforce were grounded, after several months the airline’s management was able to navigate these challenges and come out even stronger thanks to the skills gained through AMI’s Inspiring Managers programme. Established in 2002, RwandAir is one of Africa’s fastest-growing airlines. The airline serves 26 destinations across 21 countries throughout western, central, eastern and southern Africa, the Middle East, Asia and Europe. With more than 700 employees, the airline also plays a central role in the country’s thriving hospitality and tourism industry. In the fourth quarter of 2021 alone, hospitality and tourism services generated 49% of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) as a result of foreign currency revenues and job creation. However, Rwandan businesses of all sizes were not immune to the impacts of Covid-19. For RwandAir, it wasn’t just the bottom line that took a hit due to reduced tourism and flights. Challenges were also felt as remote work changed how the company managed its teams and ensured productivity. Fortunately, 70 RwandAir leaders from across the company had enrolled in AMI’s Inspiring Managers Programme. Designed for businesses in Rwanda’s hospitality and tourism sector, Inspiring Managers has been offered by AMI since 2019 in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation. The programme supports organisations and companies in the sector to upskill managers and bolster a key sector of Rwanda’s economy as a result. “When the pandemic broke out, we had to reduce the number of staff at the office and the rest worked remotely. By learning from the programme how to communicate effectively, I became confident to empower my teammates to accomplish their daily tasks properly irrespective of us being in the office,” says Anthony Gatsinzi, Cargo Planning and Pricing Manager at RwandAir. Focused on equipping emerging and established managers with skills to improve their capacity and motivate their teams, Inspiring Managers also provides access to practical tools to help participants apply the skills gained in their workplaces. In the three years of the programme being delivered in Rwanda, more than 20 leading hotels and other institutions companies have participated. Eighty-five percent of participants who completed a recent survey indicated that their competencies have improved. “Before the AMI Inspiring Managers Programme, I was the kind of person who did all my tasks alone, but after the training, I learnt how to communicate effectively and share responsibilities with my team. These days, I use this new approach with the staff that I lead,” says Assia Uwimana, Customer Relations Manager at RwandAir. After completing the programme, she learnt how to share responsibilities with her team and delegate tasks which made the work seamless. “RwandAir’s partnership with the African Management Institute has empowered our managers, which improved the efficiency of the teams they manage,” says Yvonne Manzi Makolo, Chief Executive Officer of RwandAir. “We have started to experience great changes at our workplace including better delivery of customer service, which is our number one goal,” she says. “For me, the African Management Institute came at the right time,” says Aloys Musoni, Customer End-user Outreach Station at RwandAir, who believes managers need more professional skills to help them carry out their daily duties and inspire their teams to deliver and offer better services to the customers. “AMI has helped our teams to be in a better position to achieve RwandAir’s main objective of providing world-class services to our passengers,” says Aloys. As RwandAir returns to the skies and tourism slowly returns to pre-Covid levels, one thing passengers can count on is that behind the inspired RwandAir experience is an inspired manager. As the AMI and Mastercard Foundation continue to support the hospitality and tourism sector to rebound, we look forward to more inspired managers enabling the sector to reach new heights. Learn more about the AMI Inspiring Managers Programme here.

AMI’s flagship programme for managers provides engaging and practical learning experiences to integrate skills and tools into daily management practices. Participants learn new strategies to motivate their teams, overcome obstacles, and effectively drive performance. All Programmes Flagship Programme Management Development Programme AMI’s flagship programme for managers provides engaging and practical learning experiences to integrate skills and tools into daily management practices. Participants learn new strategies to motivate their teams, overcome obstacles, and effectively drive performance. Various (Live Virtual, In-Person or Hybrid) 4 - 6 Months Request Information Designed for Middle managers, new managers, & rising supervisors Learning Journey Phase 1: Empowering your People Understanding key responsibilities in guiding and supporting a team. The importance of clear, open, and purposeful communication. Leading through persuasion and relationship-building rather than relying on formal power. Encouraging autonomy, trust, and growth in team members to unlock their potential. Phase 2: Overcoming Challenges Phase 3: Building High-Performing Teams What's Included The 4-6 month blended programme includes: 6 virtual learning lab workshops 9 online courses & practical tools 1 Change Challenge practical project Graduation event & AMI certification Custom Learning @ Scale Enterprise-Wide Learning AMI Enterprise offers the Management Development Programme as a tailored solution for workplace learning, supporting the cadre of managers across a company or organisation’s management level to learn and grow together virtually, in-person, or in a hybrid setting. Impact @ Scale Guided & Supported Learning Journeys Explore AMI's Learning Approach Cohort-Based Groups of learners are guided by AMI’s facilitators through experiences that emphasize peer-to-peer learning, action learning projects, and networking. Tech-Enabled AMI’s web and mobile apps support learners anytime and anywhere with access to video content, downloadable tools and engagement, throughout their journey. Africa First Our approach and content is built for Africa’s ambitious professionals and teams. With content in 7 languages, African case studies, and experiences led by Africa’s finest facilitators, we put Africa first in everything we do. I really enjoyed the hands-on approach of the programme, making it practical and easy to apply. I would definitely recommend it! Abigail Goschen Operations Manager UCook We‘ve seen a lot of efficiency within the team. Managers have learnt how to communicate and influence their team members. Joyce Njeri HR Manager Vivo Fashion Group I would highly recommend the programme, especially if you want to elevate your company's brand and give your employees a platform to improve themselves. Evone Selvarajah Founder & Sales Director Eden Heights Realty This experience reminded me of our shared humanity and the importance of our emotions. The emotional intelligence aspect had a lasting impact on me. It's about creating workplaces where being predictable and open leads to trust and acceptance, allowing for better conversations. Jocelyn Muoki Brand Marketing Manager Vivo Fashion Group These tools are incredibly powerful—I see them as gold. The programme has transformed my understanding of storytelling and its impact. I now fully appreciate how we can craft and use our stories to secure investment and funding opportunities. The Speak Up and Lead course, in particular, has helped me harness storytelling to highlight the values behind our work. Jackie May Founder & Editor TWYG There’s plenty of training content and tools available online, but very little is tailored to the African context. That’s what makes AMI stand out. The facilitators and participants bring local insights into every discussion, ensuring that feedback and guidance are relevant and practical. This has made me more likely to recommend AMI. As an admin at Workpay, I also appreciated their excellent customer service. Boris Maguire VP Operations Workpay As managers, we often take on too much ourselves. I’ve learned how to collaborate better with my team and ensure everyone takes responsibility for their work. I can already see a difference—the team is more engaged and proactive. John Nsubuga Global Human Resource Manager Fenix International I learned how to delegate effectively and build trust within my team using practical coaching tools. The Growth Mindset Learning Lab also helped me improve my presentation skills, making our meetings more engaging. As a result, attendance grew from 100 to 695 in a short time. Anne Njoroge Learning & Development Assistant M-GAS Implementing the time management, emotional and communication courses and tools helped me instil trust in the team and increase performance. We were able to improve rotation of duties, decrease faulty meters and increase quality meter production. Terry Abuoro Product Technician, IT M-GAS Connect with AMI to learn how this programme can unlock growth & performance. Learn More Ambitious learning for an ambitious Africa Whether you’re looking for workplace learning for five to five hundred, or customized programmes that drive impact locally or across Africa, AMI’s learning solutions are tailored to meet your unique needs. Connect with our learning advisors to discover how our ambitious learning programmes can help you achieve your ambitious goals. Connect with an AMI Learning Advisor Explore related programmes enrolling now AMI offers editions of this programme for open enrollment for individuals and smaller teams, in addition to offering our programmes at scale along side impact partners and workplace learning customers. Programme de Renforcement des Compétences Managériales Mai 2025 View Open Programme Changing Gears March 2025 View Open Programme Empowering Managers Pan Africa April 2025 View Open Programme Overview Many managers arrive into their position because they thrived as individual contributors. However, managing requires a different set of skills to deliver results when leading teams to achieve specific goals and targets. Whether a new or seasoned manager, AMI’s flagship management programme helps individual performers transform into highly effective managers who can lead teams. AMI's learning approach combines interactive workshops, self-led online learning, team-based activities, on-the-job practice, and real-time feedback, focusing on manager-specific approaches. All experiences ensure managers learn quickly and effectively while on the job. Throughout the 4-6 month program, participants learn and apply effective tools and approaches on the job. Each participant and cohort works on a strategic “Change Challenge” of their choice to apply new skills and behaviours to effect meaningful change in their role, performance, and the organisation or business they work in. Key Outcomes Effective Management and Performance Enhancement Development of core management skills to drive individual and team success. Mastery of performance management techniques to set goals, track progress, and ensure accountability. Team Motivation and Productivity Team Motivation and Productivity Communication and Problem-Solving Operational Excellence and Continuous Improvement Focus Areas Building trust Coaching Effective communication Empowering others Feedback & difficult conversations Growth mindset Influencing without authority Motivation Role of a manager Team dynamics Time management

Back to News News Nigeria AMI Launches Enterprise and Impact Businesses To Drive Organisational Growth and Empower Entrepreneurs In Nigeria 9 Oct 2024 The African Management Institute (AMI) has officially launched its presence in Nigeria with a 2-day event for AMI Enterprise and AMI Impact, reinforcing its commitment to supporting the growth of entrepreneurs and organisations across the country. Held on September 25th and 26th in Lagos, Nigeria, these launch events marked a pivotal moment in AMI’s mission to drive measurable business growth and build high-performing teams across Africa. The launch of AMI Enterprise, themed “Winning Behaviours: The Blueprint for High-Performing Teams,” took place on Wednesday, September 25th, 2024. This event was followed by the launch of AMI Impact, under the theme “Bridging the Gap: Key Insights from a Decade of Empowering SMEs,” on Thursday, September 26th, 2024. AMI Enterprise: Empowering Businesses through Practical Tools and Training AMI Enterprise is AMI’s business arm focused on equipping entrepreneurs, managers, and organisations across Africa with hands-on training and practical business management tools designed to deliver measurable growth. Asha Mweru, MD of AMI Enterprise, addressed the need to understand the right mix of winning behaviours that lead to lasting change in an organisation, driving business outcomes during the launch event. “The level of importance of these behaviours will vary across strategic stakeholders, creating misalignment within the organisation. Therefore, it is imperative to know your organization’s winning behaviours to enable you to gain insights to create effective strategies for learning, growth, and boosting overall business performance,” said Mweru. “AMI Enterprise addresses this gap by equipping businesses with diagnostic tools needed to identify their specific winning behaviours, allowing them to create actionable strategies for success”. Mweru further emphasised that these winning behaviours fall into four core categories: 1. Manages Self: Fostering personal integrity, initiative, and continuous learning. 2. Leads & Manages Others: Promoting fairness, demanding performance, and listening to understand. 3. Gets Things Done: Strategic prioritisation, monitoring performance, and effective execution. 4. Sets Direction: Providing a clear vision, solving problems, and identifying opportunities. The launch featured a panel session moderated by Sheila Ojei, AMI’s Country Manager, which included Precious Imuwahen Ajoonu, Director-General of the John Odigie-Oyegun Public Service Academy (JOOPSA), and Ireayomide Oladunjoye, Managing Director of Endeavor Nigeria. The panel explored the topic “Driving Organisational Change from the top”, underscoring the critical role of continuous learning in fostering a culture of innovation, adaptability, and high performance. Ajoonu stressed, “If you want to build a million-dollar company, your team will be the ones to get you there.” Both panellists agreed that learning and leadership development are key drivers of organisational growth, with AMI Enterprise offering the tools and training needed to build high-performing teams capable of navigating change and driving sustained business success. AMI Impact: Empowering Entrepreneurs with Strategic Partnerships On Thursday, September 26th, AMI launched AMI Impact, a business initiative focused on partnering with funders to empower entrepreneurs and small businesses across Africa. It is designed to drive systemic change by working with development partners, governments, and NGOs to deliver large-scale business training and development programs. The theme of the AMI Impact launch, “Bridging the Gap: Key Insights from a Decade of Empowering SMEs,” reflected on AMI’s journey in supporting entrepreneurs over the past 10 years. AMI CEO/Co-Founder Rebecca Harrison noted, “AMI Impact is about scaling our reach and working with funders to ensure that entrepreneurs in Africa, especially those in underserved markets, have the resources, tools, and skills they need to grow and succeed.” Sheila Ojei, AMI’s Country Manager, shared that AMI Impact has already partnered with prominent organisations, such as Ecobank, Bank of Industry, GIZ, MasterCard Foundation, and many more, to implement programs that directly address the needs of small businesses across the continent. AMI Impact leverages its experience from a decade of empowering African entrepreneurs and SMEs to create initiatives that drive business growth, create jobs, and foster economic development. AMI’s 10-Year Impact Journey: Key Insights Over the last decade, AMI has actively supported over 50,000 SMEs in 39 African countries, creating over 97,000 direct and indirect jobs. AMI’s work has demonstrated a 48-fold return on investment in SME revenue, with every $1 invested yielding $48 in revenue. Notably, women-led businesses and youth have outperformed their peers in job creation and revenue growth, a testament to AMI’s commitment to fostering inclusive and equitable business development. The AMI Impact launch featured a panel discussion featuring Eke Hart, CEO of Harley Offshore Services Ltd, and Adeola Balogun, CEO of Limlim Food Production Company. The panellists shared personal stories of how AMI’s tools and training helped them overcome business challenges and achieve growth. Hart, who has over 20 years of experience in the offshore industry, credited AMI with providing him with the practical tools needed to ensure his business’s success. Balogun, an accountant-turned-CEO, highlighted the importance of tailored support for companies in Nigeria’s food processing industry, stressing that tools like AMI’s business strategy frameworks have been crucial in her company’s growth. Key Lessons from AMI’s 10-Year Impact on African Entrepreneurs Drawing from a decade of experience, AMI shared key insights from its journey. One significant finding is that a one-size-fits-all approach does not work for Africa’s diverse SME landscape. Instead, segmentation, localization, and investment in women-led enterprises have proven to be the most effective strategies for long-term impact. AMI also emphasised the importance of localization, noting that working closely with local partners and governments ensures solutions are contextually relevant and scalable across different regions. Looking Ahead: AMI’s Continued Commitment With the successful launches of AMI Enterprise and AMI Impact, AMI is well-positioned to continue driving business growth across Africa. By equipping entrepreneurs, managers, and organisations with practical tools and tailored training, AMI remains committed to fostering a culture of learning, innovation, and sustainable business success. About African Management Institute (AMI) AMI equips entrepreneurs, managers, and organisations across Africa with the practical tools and hands-on training they need to build high-performing teams and achieve measurable business growth. Through partnerships with funders and development organisations, AMI also scales impact-driven initiatives that empower entrepreneurs across the continent. For more information or to schedule a FREE consultation with AMI Nigeria, please send an email to dami@africanmanagers.com or call +234 705 957 8217.