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MicroLoan launches Social Impact Report
10/28/2009 11:45:03 AM
MicroLoan has recently launched a social impact report focusing specifially on the everyday lives of its clients and their children in Malawi.
The report, entitled "Listening to the Voices of Women and Children in Malawi" has been researched on location and written by Jane Stacey, Regional Director, and Jane Parker, Assistant Regional Director, both of children's charity, Barnardo's. We are much indebted to them for their hard work and commitment to this project.
The report focuses specifically on the impact of MicroLoan's work on the everyday lives of clients and their children, giving particular attention to children's health, education and diet.
To date, there have been very few microfinance research studies conducted from the perspective of children, and historically a mainstream criticism of microfinance has been the lack of evidence regarding its social impact. Past studies undertaken have shown that an average family in Malawi has five dependents, and therefore this recent study was a crucial aspect of demonstrating the wider impact on them.
The Study also provides a crucial barometer for the Foundation and the long-term effectiveness of its work as it continues to streamline its microfinance model (lending to the poorest of the poor) and expand into Zambia, Namibia and Mozambique.
The launch event took place on Thursday 22nd October at Somerset House, London. To see a copy of the report please click here.
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