As Oikocredit gears up for our upcoming event in Washington, DC this Friday, I find myself getting really excited. My anticipation has been mounting for a while, and not just because it’s going to be a great party (and everyone loves a party!). Considering all the press  surrounding microfinance lately, I’m particularly looking forward to this Awareness Party as an opportunity to engage in discussion at a much-needed time. At ... Read More »

In 1996, Kosmosbek founded his own “GalenPharm” company in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan to produce ointments and tinctures from locally grown medicinal herbs. With a series of five loans, he has been able to develop the business, improve production facilities and expand distribution throughout Kyrgyzstan. Today, Kosmosbek employs 50 full-time and 15 part-time employees. His future plans include specialized drugstores providing consultation and treatment with herbal remedies. GalenPharm produces more than 60 ... Read More »

Just a few years ago, Agusta had lost everything she owned due to the disastrous effects of El Niño and the bankruptcy of her local bank. Fortunately she ran into a former neighbor who had become a credit officer for one of our partner MFIs. Augusta asked for $250 to start a food stand on the street. Soon she was soon able to move from the streets to a house. ... Read More »

Flora lives in a region of Kenya where 90% of people in the area live below the poverty line on less than $2 a day. When Flora’s husband was killed and their cattle stolen in 2001, all she could do was cry. But with four young children to support, she desperately needed to rebuild her life. With a series of loans – and a lot of hard work – she ... Read More »