RWANDA: Banks discriminate against HIV-positive people

Financial institutions in Rwanda's western district of Karongi are denying loans to people, based on their HIV status, activists have said.

According to the local New Times newspaper, an AIDS lobby group, Twizerane, said the action of some financial institutions in the area was discriminatory and went against international human rights laws to prevent victimisation of HIV-positive people.

"Being HIV-positive should not be a ground for being denied a loan, so long as one fulfilled bank requirements ... I am totally disappointed. I have been getting loans and repaying, but upon learning of my positive status the bank has denied me a loan," Rushingabirwi said.

Some of the financial institutions accused of discrimination included Banque Populaire, who has denied the allegations.

Charles Bimenyimana, the manager of Banque Populaire in Karongi, maintained that as long as clients met the necessary requirements they could access a loan at his institution.

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[This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations]