Guide / Toolkit

Microfinance and HIV/AIDS: Defining Options for Strategic and Operational Change

Decision making framework to address high HIV/AIDS prevalence markets
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This paper presents a comprehensive methodology for the analysis of issues and effects of HIV/AIDS on microfinance institutions (MFIs). The paper presents modules for analyzing HIV/AIDS linkages with microfinance and details processes for institutions operating in high HIV/AIDS prevalence regions:

  • Comprehending client risk and costs due to HIV/AIDS;
  • Differentiating between HIV/AIDS infected and HIV/AIDS affected individuals; developing products accordingly;
  • Discussing HIV/AIDS with clients and analyzing market changes due to HIV/AIDS;
  • Developing institutional strategies to cope with environmental changes due to HIV/AIDS.

The paper compiles lessons for MFIs and recommends:

  • Assessing HIV/AIDS and its impact as a preventive measure;
  • Reorienting market focus towards non-infected clients;
  • Removing myths and rumors about HIV/AIDS in client groups;
  • Augmenting policies and procedures for improving operational response.

The paper presents exercises that are designed for a workshop-type setting. The training workshop is meant to provide MFI board members, managers, and staff with tools to undertake the necessary changes in their institutions.

About this Publication

By Green, C., Miller, M., Liskin, L., Parker, J.
Published