ERDO’s microfinance projects extend small loans to vulnerable individuals (women and youth) who do not have access to this kind of support. What we’ve seen over the years is that microfinance not only builds the financial capacity of the small business owner but has a direct link with better living conditions: sending children to school, more nutritious food and home improvements. Scroll for more information on our specific projects in Burundi and Kenya.
Microfinance for social change
Wezesha Project
This program in Burundi provides female small business owners with access to financial services and business management training from which they are generally excluded because of their gender. Traditional banks in these areas do not want to lend money to women because it is considered too risky, too administratively intensive and without sufficient profit.
Microloans give women the opportunity to expand their businesses, increase their income and better provide for their families.
Archer’s Post
The families in Archer’s Post, part of Samburu County where ERDO works, are pastoralists. They rely on raising livestock for their livelihood. Around 73% of the population here live in poverty. Young people are having trouble establishing themselves and earning an income to care for their families. Since it has been difficult to farm, young adults have been setting up small businesses to create their own income. ERDO has been working with these young adults to grow their small businesses.