In 2024, Kilimo Trust Rwanda was honored with the Best Corporate Change Maker of the Year award for its exceptional efforts in promoting inclusivity, particularly in empowering youth with hearing impairments through agribusiness initiatives. This recognition highlights Kilimo Trust's commitment to creating equitable opportunities for all individuals, regardless of physical abilities.
One of the flagship programs contributing to this accolade is the Rural Youth Employment Support (R-YES) project. Launched in 2020 and running until June 2025, R-YES aims to generate sustainable employment opportunities for rural youth in agribusiness. The project is funded by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). By collaborating with Integrated Polytechnic Regional Colleges (IPRCs), Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions, and agribusiness industries, R-YES provides competency-based training in various agricultural fields. Notably, the program is inclusive, offering tailored support to youth with disabilities, including those with hearing impairments.
In November 2022, the first cohort of 356 youths graduated from the R-YES program, receiving certificates in ten agribusiness disciplines such as poultry farming, animal feed production, milk handling and processing, and farm machinery operation. Among the graduates were individuals with hearing impairments who benefited from specialized training approaches, ensuring they acquired the necessary skills to thrive in the agribusiness sector.
Kilimo Trust's dedication to inclusivity extends beyond training. The organization actively facilitates employment placements and entrepreneurial opportunities for graduates, collaborating with various stakeholders to create an enabling environment for all youth. This holistic approach has led to significant outcomes, with many graduates, including those with hearing impairments, securing employment or starting their own agribusiness ventures.
The Best Corporate Change Maker of the Year award serves as a testament to Kilimo Trust's impactful work in fostering an inclusive agribusiness landscape in Rwanda. By prioritizing accessibility and tailored support, Kilimo Trust continues to empower youth with disabilities, ensuring they have the skills and opportunities to contribute meaningfully to the agricultural sector and the broader economy.