Microfinance Programme Impact Assessment 2003 United Nations Capital Development Fund: Based on Case Studies in Haiti, Kenya, Malawi and Nigeria

This report assesses United Nations Capital Development Fund’s (UNCDF) efforts in four countries, namely Haiti, Kenya, Malawi, and Nigeria in order to recommend future directions for UNCDF’s microfinance programs.

UNCDF was established in 1966 as a special purpose fund primarily for small-scale investment in the poorest countries of the world. It works to help eradicate poverty through local governance and microfinance. The report states that:

• Program has been successful in increasing outreach. Microfinance services have expanded about 80 percent since the inception of UNCDF microfinance programs;
• UNCDF partners have successfully targeted poor and very poor populations and are increasing women’s access to financial services;
• Program participation enabled clients to overcome food insecurity, pay for medical and lifecycle expenses, address emergencies, increase assets and invest in social assets;
• Program participation led to increased self-esteem and increased decision-making;
• Programs have had an impact on policy frameworks in the four case study countries.

The report states that UNCDF has an increasingly comparative advantage in its ability to respond to market needs and is well placed to build inclusive financial systems.