Didier Uworumu is a 26 year old young man who has lived all his life in Kimisagara with his mother and sister. He has a degree in accounting from Kampala University, and is awaiting formal graduation. In January 2012, he got training in project management and planning through the Start Your Own Business initiative. In February, he scoped for credit and business ideas. A friend suggested to him that he should grow mushrooms and gave him a loan of 200,000 RWF (approximately USD 300). His mother produces mushroom “seeds” (spawn) for a local seed company. With the money he got, he purchased the necessary equipment such as a tent, water reservoir, watering cans, and manure/compost. The cost of producing a Kilogram of mushrooms is 700 RWF (approximately USD 1). He sold a kilogram at 1,000 RWF. In 3 weeks he had made enough sales to repay the loan and has 100,000 RWF in his savings account.

Didier wants to expand his business. He is seeking 300,000 RWF to expand his business since the demand for the mushrooms is high. He is working with his mother to see if she can obtain the “seed” on credit – that would lower his initial investment bill. He has approached KOOJAD, the local cooperative bank for a loan. However, for individuals the interest rate is 10% which he feels is too high. Equity Bank may be in a position to give him a loan at 6% which is more affordable, but for that he has to shift his money to a credit account. He is exploring his options and is confident that he will be making his next lot of money soon!