Sierra Leone

Project Background

The Microfinance Programme focuses on the development of a sustainable microfinance sector and strengthening of Microfinance Institutions (MFIs) for increased access to micro credit. Through grant funding to MFIs and Community Banks, an opportunity is provided to improve the livelihoods of the poor, particularly the majority who live in rural communities. Approximately 160,000 clients have been targeted and 40,000 are already being serviced. Direct support is also provided to women and youths on small enterprise skills training and access to resources for small business activities, thereby improving their income security.

Project Objectives

1. Train Microfinance Institutions to provide financial services to
   93,000 clients.

2. Establish strategic partnerships for additional resource mobilization

3. Provide improved policy environment and disseminate sound principles for a sustainable microfinance sector.

1. Increase outreach and attain sustainability

2. Build strategic partnerships

3. Strengthen the Central Bank to integrate MF in to Financial sector

4. Accept, adopt and widely disseminate sound MF principles.

Links with Millennium Development Goals (MDGs)