Action Research : Building Networks for Improved Delivery of Financial Services to the Poor

Over the last three years, the team for Action Research on Sustainable Microfinance Institutions in Africa has assisted local rural and micro-finance institutions to improve their delivery of financial services to the poor in rural and urban areas. Supported by Swiss Trust Funds, the program covers six countries in Sub-Saharan Africa - Ghana, Cameroon, Kenya, Ethiopia, Mozambique, and Zambia. The program's emphasis is on capacity building at the national level through distilling and disseminating 'best practices' and strengthening local networks of rural and microfinance providers. The five year program has the objectives of : (i) documenting current practices of financial service providers in rural areas, and assess the effectiveness of innovative techniques; (ii) creating and strengthening national networks of rural and micro-finance institutions as a forum for mutual learning and dialogue; (iii) improving the capabilities of institutions to deliver financial services to the poor on a sustainable basis; and (iv) establishing a mechanism for World Bank staff as well as donors to support effective, innovative institutions that reach the poor.