RUSAGARA MUVUNANKIKO Valens
In the Masaka Sector of Kigali’s Kicukiro District, Binty Walda Kamondo is proving that nature can inspire successful businesses. As the founder of Binty Skincare, she produces natural skincare products made from Aloe Vera and other plant-based ingredients, including cucumber, turmeric and activated charcoal. Since launching the business in 2023, she has created jobs, supported local suppliers and introduced affordable natural skincare products to Rwandan consumers.
In an interview with The Real Content Rwanda, Binty shared the story behind her business, the challenges she faced and her vision for the future.
Binty said the idea for the business was born while she was working for a Kenyan businesswoman after completing her studies. According to her, her employer constantly encouraged employees to think beyond employment.
“She always told us that we should find ways to start our own businesses instead of depending only on selling products for someone else. At the same time, I had difficult skin and struggled to find products that worked for me. That inspired me to start researching how to make my own natural soap.”
She began experimenting with Aloe Vera and other natural ingredients. After producing soap for herself, she shared it with friends and other people, who appreciated the quality of the product. Their positive feedback encouraged her to establish Binty Skincare.
The company initially specialized in natural bathing soaps but today it manufactures a wider range of skincare and haircare products.
“We started by making bathing soaps only. Today we also produce body oils for different skin types and hair products that help promote hair growth while reducing dandruff. We are still expanding our product line.”
Although she is now running a successful skincare company, Binty said her academic background is unrelated to the beauty industry. She studied Mathematics, Physics and Computer Science before travelling to Kenya to receive professional training in cosmetic formulation.
“What I studied at school is completely different from what I do today. My background is in Mathematics, Physics and Computer Science. I later went to Kenya to learn the chemistry behind skincare products. My computer knowledge still helps me with product design and branding.”
Binty believes her products stand out because they are made from natural ingredients and produced locally in Rwanda.
“Our products are competitive because there are still very few companies producing completely natural skincare products in Rwanda. Most skincare products on the market are imported and expensive, while ours are natural, locally made and effective.”
The business has also become an important source of employment. Binty started alone, carrying out every responsibility herself, from production to marketing and design. Today, the company employs six permanent workers and twelve part-time employees.
“When I started, I was doing everything by myself. Now we have six full-time employees and twelve part-time workers, and we hope to employ even more people as the business continues to grow.”
She added that the company also creates opportunities for people living in the surrounding community by giving them priority whenever temporary workers are needed. Employees also receive the company’s soaps free of charge, while nearby residents can purchase the products at reduced prices.
To strengthen consumer confidence, Binty Skincare is currently undergoing Rwanda’s Zamukana Ubuziranenge quality certification programme.
“Our products themselves already meet quality expectations. We are now working on completing the remaining certification requirements so that everything meets national standards.”
Like many entrepreneurs, Binty financed her business with personal savings before receiving external support.
“I started this business using my own savings. Later, participating in the YouthConnekt Rwanda competition changed everything. Finishing fourth nationally gave me financial support that helped me expand the business. Today, our growth is mainly financed by income generated from product sales.”
Looking ahead, she hopes to make Binty Skincare products available across Rwanda before entering regional and international markets.
“At the moment, our products are mainly available in Kigali. My dream is to reach every province in Rwanda so that everyone can easily access them. In the future, I also want to export our products to international markets.”
Binty concluded by encouraging young people to embrace entrepreneurship instead of spending excessive time on social media without developing productive skills.
“There are opportunities for those who are willing to work. Young people should stop wasting time scrolling on social media and instead start creating something. Success does not happen overnight. Everything is achieved step by step through patience, consistency and hard work.”
Through Binty Skincare, Binty Walda Kamondo continues to demonstrate how determination, innovation and the sustainable use of Rwanda’s natural resources can build successful businesses, create employment and contribute to the country’s growing entrepreneurial ecosystem.
