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national committees
National Committees
Under the auspices of the International Year of Microcredit, member states were requested to establish National Committees to facilitate activities and to create a dialogue on best practices to build more inclusive financial sectors in their countries. Each National Committee assesses the challenges that poor people confront in accessing financial services and decides upon activities and initiatives to address these issues. As of the end of September 2005, a total of one hundred countries have developed activities to support the International Year of Microcredit, and sixty countries have formally established National Committees/Focal Points. The National Committees include representation from across different sectors.

To fill information gaps (goal 1), countries are making great strides in conducting research, evaluating current practices, and assessing the overall microfinance environment. To raise public awareness (goal 2), countries are organizing public events, seminars and conferences, disseminating information through the media (print, electronic, and broadcast), and coordinating communication campaigns. Fifty-two countries have created or are in the process of creating websites, and 270 seminars, conferences or workshops have been held or will be held within the year. Countries are coming up with innovative ideas to promote microfinance including contests, parades, theatrical plays, caravans, trade shows, stamps, and currency notes. In addition, the National Committees are focused on building commitment (goal 3). Many countries are assessing their legislation to create operational environments conducive for microfinance institutions and their clients. Others are focusing on building relevant networks, engaging various sectors, and mobilizing resources. Some of the National Committees also have plans to evaluate the IYM at the end of the year and establish long-term strategies and steps to last beyond 2005.

Many countries, which have not created formal National Committees, have still pledged their support and are actively participating in the International Year of Microcredit. Worldwide, forty other countries are engaging in similar types of activities as outlined under the three goals. Many countries are involved in research and evaluation of their microfinance sector and are hosting symposiums and trainings. Countries around the world are engaging in public awareness campaigns. Many are participating in the Global Microentrepreneurship Awards Programme or utilizing channels such as caravans, exhibitions, and documentaries to exchange information and promote microfinance under the logo of the International Year of Microcredit. They are standardizing procedures and working to create legislation and regulatory frameworks that will assist microfinance. Countries are also engaging different sectors and building partnerships.

Contact your country's Year of Microcredit 2005 National Committee.

If you have formed or are forming a national committee, please click here to download important documents including a sample action plan, instructions on forming a communications campaign and an update on what other national committees are doing.

Excerpts from some national plans are described below.

If you do not see your country listed below, you may contact your mission to the United Nations for more information. This information is available at: http://www.un.org/Overview/missions.htm

Or to update your country's activities listed below, please email yearofmicrocredit@uncdf.org.

Afghanistan Gabon Nepal
Angola Germany Netherlands
Argentina Ghana Nicaragua
Australia Grenada Niger
Austria Guatemala Nigeria
Azerbaijan Guinea Bissau Norway
Bangladesh Hungary Pakistan
Belarus India Panama
Belgium Indonesia Peru
Benin Iran Philippines
Bhutan Italy Poland
Bolivia Ivory Coast Portugal
Bosnia and Herzegovina Jamaica Romania
Botswana Jordan Russia
Brazil Kazakhstan Senegal
Bulgaria Kenya Sierra Leone
Burkina Faso Kyrgyzstan Singapore
Burundi Lebanon South Africa
Cambodia Liberia Spain
Canada Liechtenstein Sweden
Central African Republic Luxembourg Switzerland
Chile Madagascar Togo
China Malawi Trinidad and Tobago
Colombia Malaysia Tunisia
Comoros Mali Turkey
Costa Rica Mauritania Uganda
Croatia Mauritius United Kingdom
Democratic Republic of Congo Mexico United States
Dominican Republic Moldova Uzbekistan
Ecuador Monaco Venezuela
Egypt Mongolia Vietnam
El Salvador Morocco Zambia
Finland Mozambique Zimbabwe
France        

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Afghanistan
Afghanistan is participating in the Global Microentrepreneurship Awards Programme.

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Angola
Angola envisages undertaking a number of activities aimed at evaluating microfinance initiatives, building capacity, and standardizing relevant procedures. Angola is convening a national meeting on microcredit and launching a national microcredit campaign to promote opportunities offered by microcredit programs, thereby contributing to poverty reduction. The Ministry of Family and the Promotion of Women is executing a plan coordinated with other partners to finance small-scale commercial, agricultural and fishing activities.

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Argentina
In April 2005, Argentina launched the National Committee formed by 25 institutions representing the government, the central bank, banking institutions, NGOs with expertise in microcredit, national and international sponsors, small and medium-size enterprises, the Inter-American Development Bank and the academic sector through the participation of public and private universities. The National Committee's action plan is focused on the long-term sustainability of microfinance in the country for which it will hold two forum/workshops: Forum on Institutionalization of Microfinance Activity and Forum on the Long Run Sustainability of Microcredit Activity. To establish the framework for the above mentioned forums, the National Committee is conducting a research study on the current situation of the microfinance sector, including past and current trends, indicators, and potential microcredit sources; it is also preparing a guideline on best microfinance practices in Argentina. An exhibition on successful projects financed through microcredit loans and a microfinance entrepreneurship award are among the activities that Argentina's National Committee is planning to organize to raise public awareness. At the end of the 2005, Argentina will hold a national workshop to present the activities held during the International Year of Microfinance and to evaluate goals attained.

Contact:
Chair: Daniel Arroyo, Ministry of Social Development
Av. 9 de Julio 1925 piso 15, C1073ABA
Buenos Aires - Republica Argentina
Tel: (54-11) 4379-3694
Email: darroyo@desarrollosocial.gov.ar

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Australia
Australia has established a Focal Point consisting of members from several sectors including nonprofit/microfinance networks/NGOs and UNDP. The country has created a year-long outreach program with the goal of educating Australia's youth about microfinance. On March 8, 2005, an education outreach event was held at Rudolph Steiner School, followed by an Event on April 13 at NSW Universities. Additional outreach events were scheduled each month through November 2005. In May, an education outreach packet with videos and the latest Year information was distributed to universities to be included in post-graduate international development courses. A newsletter was distributed throughout approximately 270 Australian Independent Schools across NSW. Planned community-based education activities have also included displays and seminars.

Public awareness efforts have included the creation of a pre-stamped envelope and bookmark with the International Year of Microcredit logo and Australia's microfinance website, www.microcredit.org.au. The country has scheduled publication about the year in Focus Magazine (the magazine of Australia's overseas aid program), curriculum material for AusAID's Global Education program and on its website, as well as a poster series.

On March 14, Emerge microenterprise was publicly launched. June events included a NILS Conference and a Meeting with Joint Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs, Defense and Trade at Parliament House. In August, a conference was held in celebration of the IYM, as well as a conference with MED Stream about engaging communities in microfinance. A media briefing and business breakfasts are planned for fall 2005, as well as a Year-end event on November 8, 2005.

The United Nations International Year of Microcredit  "CLOSE OF YEAR" event:
    Run Sheet     Photos: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

Contact:
Mr. Clay O'Brien, General Manager Special Projects, Opportunity International Australia
(Contact the Committee via UNIC Sydney: Jennie Watson, National Information Officer)
Level 5, 46-48 York Street
Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
Tel: 61 2 9262 5111 or 61 413 082 650
Fax: 61 2 9262 5886
Email: jwatson@un.org.au, unic@un.org.au
Website: www.microcredit.org.au

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Austria
Austria plans to strengthen microfinance institutions in developing countries through expanding outreach, improving services and efficiency as well as supporting local, regional and international microfinance networks. Austria is launching an information campaign on the benefits and challenges of microfinance and the opportunities that it presents to small- and medium-sized businesses. The country also held a Symposium on Microfinance in Vienna in June 2005, attended by representatives from the government, World Bank and UNDP.

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Azerbaijan
Azerbaijan has established a National Committee. The Ministry of Economic Development of Azerbaijan has officially approved a diverse set of activities to celebrate the International Year of Microcredit 2005. The activities promote the provision of microfinance and support the development of micro- and small- business with a special focus on rural areas. The National Entrepreneurship Support Fund (NESF) under the Ministry has been appointed as a focal point for the IYM and a launch event was held on December 22, 2004. By founding a National Committee, the Ministry intends to bring together all country-level actors to promote microfinance as a powerful tool in the fight against poverty and to improve the financial market in order to achieve sustainable economic development. The NESF organized a conference in February 2005 to review the current situation and challenges in and perspectives on building the financial sector. It is also increasing awareness of microfinance by organizing round tables and credit fairs to support low-income people who previously had no access to financial services. The NESF's current policy is to develop partnerships and increase collaboration between MFIs, banks, micro- and small- businesses that will promote an enabling environment for local private sector development.

Contact:
Chair: Gadir Huseynov, Director, National Entrepreneurship Support Fund
Ministry of Economic Development
3, UN 50th Anniversary St.
Baku, Azerbaijan, AZ 1001
Tel: 994 12 494 19 81
Email: fond@economy.gov.az
Website: www.microfinance.az

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Bangladesh
The National Committee in Bangladesh has instituted a public awareness campaign including creative elements such as an essay competition and the issuing of two postage stamps in commemoration of the International Year of Microcredit. Other activities include special supplements published in English and Bengali newspapers, features published regularly in the national newspapers, and a booklet entitled "State of Microcredit." Furthermore, meetings with beneficiaries and stakeholders are scheduled year round; talk shows, features and success stories of the microcredit activities are distributed through national broadcasting centers and other electronic media. The National Committee is holding seminars, symposiums, and rallies, in addition to featuring documentary films and audio-video shows for the public. National and local fairs are being held to promote borrowers' products. Bangladesh is also publishing reports of successful MFIs and microcredit borrowers, and hosting essay and debate competitions on issues pertaining to microcredit activities, and awards are given to successful managers/field workers and other applicable individuals. Finally, the IYM slogan is being printed on calendars, diaries, pads of paper, and envelopes of various organizations. The National Committee of Bangladesh members encompass a range of government, private sector and NGO bodies. Government members include the Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Rural Development & Cooperative Division, Ministry of Fisheries & Livestock, and Ministry of Woman & Children Affairs.

Contact:
Chair: Dr. Fakhruddin Ahmed, Managing Director, Palli Karma-Sahayak Foundation
Focals: Mr. Okond Mohammed Rafipul Islam; Mr. Md. Abdus Sattar
Palli Karma-Sahayak Foundation E-4/B
Agargaon Administrative Area
Dhaka-1207, Bangladesh
Tel: 880 2 9140246
Fax: 880 2 9134431
Email: fahmed@pksf-bd.org
Website: www.pksf-bd.org/un_microcredit05.asp

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Belarus
Belarus is celebrating the Year with several events. In November 2004, the country held a press conference dedicated to the start of the IYM. In June, the UN Representative Office in Belarus hosted a training session for journalists called "International Year of Microcredit: How to Write about Microfinancing and Microcredit," organized jointly by the UN Department of Public Information in Belarus and the United Nations Development Programme. Mass media representatives were invited to take part in the training session. Belarus' web sites on the Year are:
http://un.by/en/undp/news/belarus/18-11-04-11.asp
www.un.by/yearofmicrocredit

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Belgium
Belgium has established a National Committee. Since November 18, 2004 when it held a press conference to launch its involvement with the Year, Belgium has partnered with a West-African Country in raising general public awareness with television and radio spots, as well as printed brochures and the Year's website. This partnership also produced a microfinance event that took place in Southern Belgium in June and another is planned for September 2005. The Ministry of Development Cooperation organized a four-day conference in February 2005 and the National Committee is planning two-day National Forum to conclude the Year in February 2006.

Contact:
Chair: Charles Tollenaere, Directorate General - Development Cooperation
Federal Public Service Foreign Affairs, Foreign Trade & Development Cooperation
Brederodestraat, 6
B-1000 Brussels, Belgium
Tel: 32 2 519 06 26
Fax: 32 2 519 06 83
Email: Charles.Tollenaere@diplobel.fed.be

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Benin
Benin's National Committee was established in October of 2004 and includes representatives from the government, central bank, bank associations, nonprofits/NGOs, and multilateral agencies. Among the many activities during 2005 is a caravan that is traveling through 12 regions, promoting microfinance in various localities. Debates on current microfinance topics are being broadcasted via rural radio and other media in order to publicize activities to people in those regions. Benin's National Committee is working toward the adoption of a national policy on microcredit and microcredit organizations. Further commitment to the Year is evidenced by Benin's study of the impact of microfinance on the reduction of poverty; scientists will gather for a colloquium on the field of research at the d'Avomey-Calavi University. Benin is also hosting forums and press conferences, developing a website, showing a documentary, establishing the Center of Exchange of MFI Information, and holding exhibitions of products made by beneficiaries of microfinance. It is also planning a "Night of Microfinance" when awards will be presented to the best institutions.

Contact:
Chair: Martin Gbedey, Tech Counselor, Ministry of Economics & Finance (Conseillet Technique à l'Economie du MFE)
01 BP 2663 RP COTONOU
Tel: 229 30.01.34
Email: gbedeymartin@yahoo.fr

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Bhutan
Bhutan's National Committee members include those from the government and non profit sector, as well as the UNDP and multilateral agencies. Bhutan launched the IYM through a one-day workshop in April 2005. At a forum, Bhutan held various presentations from different perspectives on microcredit and savings and had speeches by high ranked officials. Bhutan has been involved in increasing awareness of microfinance (brochure and TV program). A year-long Rural Savings Programme called "Save to Grow" was launched also in April.

Contact:
Chairs: Marie Pedersen, Sunita Giri
PO Box 162
Thumphu, Bhutan
Tel: (975-2)32 24 24 ext.207
Email: marie.pedersen@undp.org; sunita.giri@undp.org
Website: www.undp.org.bt

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Bolivia
Bolivia's National Committee was formed in March 2005 and was integrated by four government institutions: the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Sustainable Development and FONDESIF (Fund for the Financial Sector Development and Support to the Productive Sector). Bolivia is working on the coordination of diverse activities with the participation of private enterprises, non-financial organizations and MFIs and it will participate in the microenterprise forum of the International Development Bank. The National Committee is making an effort to raise public awareness about the importance and operation of microfinance. It is organizing workshops directed at university students and professional associations (boards), and discussion panels with the participation of representatives of microfinance institutions and micro-entrepreneurships. Bolivia is also planning to hold an international conference and a MFIs convention.

Contact:
Chair: Carlos A. Martins, Secretario Ejecutivo, FONDESIF
Email: cmartins@fondesif.gov.bo

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Bosnia and Herzegovina
Bosnia and Herzegovina have established a Focal Point. In March 2005, the Focal Point organized round tables to assess the need for new laws on microlending. In April, the country introduced the microfinance sector and its achievements at a Formal Assembly of UMFO (Association of Microfinance Organizations) and presented impact study results by the World Bank. It is organizing an exhibition to present client products in Sarajevo and is planning a Balkan Conference for November. It is also inviting Mohammed Yunus, founder of the Grameen Bank, to speak. It is holding meetings with various officials as well as conferences on legislation surrounding microfinance.

Contact:
Chair: Ms. Sadina Bina, Coordinator of AMFI B&H activities, President of Year of Microfinancing Committee in B&H, and MCO EKI Director
Association of Microfinance Institutions in Bosnia and Herzegovina - AMFI B&H
Envera Sehovica 54
Tel: 387 35 300 462, 033 658 550
Fax: 387 35 300 479
Email: sbina@mkoeki.com; amfi@bih.net.ba
Website: www.mi-bospo.org

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Botswana
Botswana has established a National Committee. It is undertaking a situation analysis of the microfinance sector in Botswana and developing a database. The Committee is encouraging relevant government authorities and institutions to incorporate microfinance in a future speech to the country and engaging national figures as spokespeople for IYM. It is developing documentation and/or video documentaries with stories of microfinance clients who have succeeded. It is also drafting an action plan for activities beyond 2005.

The Committee will host several events to commemorate the closing of the Year; it will organize conferences where the entrepreneurs, who have benefited from microfinance, will have the chance to display their products at schools, government halls, embassies and shopping centers. The National Committee will also establish a "date" to celebrate the importance of having inclusive financial sectors.

Contact:
Constance Formson, UNDP
1st Floor UN Place, Khama Crescent
Gaborone, Botswana
Tel: 267 3952121 x218
Email: constance.formson@undp.org
Website: www.unbotswana.org.bw

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Brazil
The National Committee of Brazil was officially formed in April 2005, with a national decree published that same day in the official government newspaper. Brazil's National Committee is composed of 20 government institutions including the Central Bank, government banking institutions, development banks, and 16 civil society institutions including various MFI associations.

National Committee for the International Year of Microcredit
Report of Activities

Contact:
Chair: Paul Singer, Ministry of Work and Employment
Email: paul.singer@mte.gov.br

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Bulgaria
Bulgaria has developed a National Committee with members from nonprofits/NGOs and multilateral agencies. Activities surrounding the International Year of Microcredit began in October of 2004. In November, a press conference was held to launch the International Year. The National Committee is conducting an information campaign on the benefits and challenges of microfinance and the opportunities it presents to small and medium-sized businesses. The Committee plans to publish newsletters and partner with media to increase general public awareness and to ensure a consistent flow of information on MFI activities. The first newsletter was published in March 2005 and a second issue is scheduled for June. The National Committee also launched a web site in April. The Committee is also organizing a series of seminars focused on current trends in the development of the non-banking microfinance sector and on the legal issues concerning the work of the microcredit organizations. Round tables and regional information meetings are scheduled throughout the year. Topics include presentations on MFIs and legal regulations conducive for an effective and inclusive microfinance sector. The Committee will convene a national conference in November 2005 to assess results and activities of the year and to highlight future action. In addition, the Committee wishes to establish a Microentrepreneur of the Year award. The National Committee plans to continue its activities beyond the International Year of Microcredit. It will also focus on the prospects and challenges faced by micro businesses after Bulgaria's accession to the European Union.

Contact:
Maya Nyagolova, Elena Panova, UNDP Bulgaria
Tel: 359 2 96 96 167; 359 2 96 96 125
Email: maya.nyagolova@undp.org; elena.panova@undp.org
Website: http://www.undp.bg/en/year_microcredit_2005.php

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Burkina Faso
The National Committee in Burkina Faso was established in April 2005. Its members include representatives from many sectors including the government, central bank, bank associations, nonprofits/NGOs, private sector, multilateral agencies, and academia. Its planned activities for the year include a national press conference, forum discussions, and a one-week microfinance conference. The Committee is launching a public awareness campaign including brochures, five radio pieces, TV shows, and general publicity in the International Journal of Microcredit. It is holding a university competition on microfinance and is researching microfinance geographically. It is also carrying out a study on "Identifying obstacles to rural and agricultural microfinancing: implication of the education sector and of basic elementary education programs." The National Committee is organizing an award ceremony as well as field trips. Additionally, UNV is promoting education and training for youth and their parents, helping them settle small-scale activities through microfinance (with the goal of poverty reduction and socioeconomic re-integration).

Contact:
Chair: Lucien Bembamba, General Director of the Treasury and Public Accounting
Tel: 50 32 60 95
Email: bembamba.lucien@cenatrin.bf
Website: http://www.tresor.bf

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Burundi
Burundi has established a National Committee, which includes representatives from many sectors including the government, central bank, nonprofits/NGOs, multilateral agencies, and the private sector. The National Committee is focusing on mobilizing resources for microentrepreneurs and MFIs. Burundi is planning to host an educational Open House (or Fair) and distribute brochures on microfinance. It is creating a website, a video on basic concepts of microfinance to be aired on television, and radio outreach programs. Burundi is also training individuals to speak about microfinance in laymen's terms. The National Committee will additionally host a contest and a theatrical play.

Contact:
Chair: Bikebako Pontien, Président du Comité Exécutif Réseau des Institutions de Micro Finance (RIM)
(contact via Ndayishimiye Cyprien, Secrétaire Exécutif Réseau des Institutions de Micro Finance (RIM))
Boulevard de la Tanzanie
BP2415, Bujumbura, Burundi
Tel: 257 22.28.88
Fax: 257.22.84.51; 257 990 790
Email: ndayishimi@yahoo.fr
Website: http://rimburundi.civiblog.org/blog/AnneMicrocrdit

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Cambodia
Cambodia has plans to hold a microenterprise fair/workshop and produce a film on Cambodian microenterprises.

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Canada
The Canadian National Committee includes members from the government, local banks/bank associations, nonprofit/microfinance networks/NGOs, private sector, UNDP, cooperation agencies, and academia. The National Committee is celebrating the IYM through events, a web site (www.microfinance.ca), a newsletter, and more. Canada is recognizing October 20, 2005 as National Microfinance day and is hosting celebratory events including a panel discussion, luncheon, and an exhibition. On October 21-23, 2005, the National Committee is holding a national microcredit conference in Quebec. In November 2006, it hosting the Global Microcredit Summit in Halifax, Nova Scotia.

The National Committee is also working with several large organizations to implement initiatives for the IYM. One organization, Oikocredit is planning several conferences and technical seminars, making available an informational brochure, distributing IYM related news releases, making speakers available, and highlighting the Year in its member publication and at its annual convention. It is also encouraging churches to organize an Oikocredit Sunday to celebrate the UN year and partnering with ING-the Netherlands to encourage employee investments in microcredit finance instruments. Likewise, the Canadian International Development Agency has planned several initiatives including an exhibition entitled "Meet CIDA's Microfinance Partners," a training in microfinance for CIDA staff, and a website. The Committee is also implementing a communications campaign, a website to highlight microfinance in Haiti and Senegal, and a contest for ages 18 to 30, entitled "Building the future now!"

Contact:
Chair: Kim Brand, Senior Manager Corporate Social Responsibility Scotiabank
Scotiaplaza, 6th Floor
40 King Street West
Toronto, ON
M5H 1H1
Tel: (416) 866-3400
Fax: (416) 866-5929
Email: Kim_Brand@scotiacapital.com
Website: www.microfinance.ca

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Central African Republic
Central African Republic launched the International Year of Microcredit in November 2004. At that time conferences and round tables were held which discussed issues including challenges in the sector and the problem of rural financing. Topics such as "Women and microfinance," "Alternatif financing," and "Les Mutuelles des Santé en RCA," were presented. The case of "Mutuelle financière des Femmes Africaines" active in Cameroon was also presented. The importance of raising awareness among students and teachers on the concepts of microfinance and its contributions to the MDGs was also discussed; documents were provided to the University library to help students develop their thesis and research on microfinance. Many recommendations were formulated including those on improving the transport and communication systems, developing a national microfinance policy, creating strategic partnerships with donor countries, the private and banking sectors, holding a publicity campaign, and creating products to respond to the needs of the poor and especially women.

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Chile
To raise public awareness about the IYM and to spread news on the launch of the National Committee, Chile is planning a release press during the week of the Microcredit Summit in Chile. Chile's National Committee includes members from the government, academic sector, state and private banking institutions, international organizations, associations of micro-, small- and medium-enterprises and private non-financial institutions. The country is conducting research in order to develop a position paper on access to microfinance in Chile and the infrastructural obstacles preventing it. The National Committee is also inviting the head of the Microenterprise Unit at the IDB in Washington to hold a moderated Master's level discussion on the global microfinance market. The Chilean National Committee is also developing country-wide recommendations for improved microfinance to be released by the end of the Year.

Contact:
Chair: Irene Philippi Resident Representative, UNDP Chile
Tel: (56 2) 337-2400
Email: irene.philippi@undp.org

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China
The Chinese National Working Committee is planning several forums. A conference inviting a large number of governors from China's poor counties is being organized to share experiences, raise awareness, and provide the knowledge and contacts necessary to facilitate start-up of local government microfinance programmes in poor counties. Another conference inviting participants from a variety of Asian countries is being organized to discuss the experience of women in microcredit. This will share diverse experiences, consolidate lessons learned, and discuss the need for an Asia-wide network on microfinance. The International Finance Forum, a high level symposium based on the Global Compact of the United Nations and held in conjunction with the G20 ministerial summit in Beijing, is expected to include discussions on microfinance and how building an inclusive financial sector will contribute to China's efforts towards sustained poverty reduction.

China is also participating in the Global Microentrepreneurship Awards Programme. In addition, several publications are being circulated in celebration of the Year, including a booklet of personal stories from UNICEF microfinance programmes, a UNDP policy study with the People's Bank of China, a DVD summary of the International Workshop on MSME Finance facilitated by the World Bank, and a 28-minute UNICEF film produced for the Year of Microcredit.

November 2005 awards ceremony

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Colombia
Twenty-five members who represent the key actors of the microfinance sector in the country established Colombia's National Committee in November 2004. Government institutions, banking institutions, academy sector, NGOs and international organizations are involved in the National Committee's activities. The National Committee is making an effort to build a national database on the microfinance sector in order to fill diverse information gaps. This information will provide a picture of the microfinance status in Colombia and will contribute to the establishment of a strategy plan. The National Committee is also planning to create a database of the different research studies on the microfinance sector that have been conducted during the past 2 years. Some studies will be publicly disseminated on the National Committee's webpage. A thorough analysis of these studies will also provide clear information on what else needs to be studied in the specific objective of the Year - to build inclusive financial sectors.

A series of press conferences and working tables on sectoral and thematic issues (such as rural credit, regulations, etc.) are being organized. A series of documents analyzing the most critical barriers to microfinance are also being published during the Year. A publicity campaign is being launched via radio, TV, and in schools and Universities. The Committee is also contributing to the UN Blue Book and the UN Microfinance Matters Newsletter.

Contact:
Chair: Maria Jose Rubio, Technical Secretary of the Year
Email: redesarrollo@supercabletv.net.co
Website: www.aimcolombia.org

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Comoros
Comoros' National Committee is organizing conferences, workshops, and meetings; these will facilitate debates, raise awareness, help in exchange of ideas, and bring together microentrepreneurs and the government institutions. The Committee is also organizing an exhibition and a media campaign to commemorate the Year. The media campaign includes a web site, promotion on radio and TV, posters with the IYM message and slogans, balloons with microfinance slogans, and folders with the history of microfinance in Comoros and its key figures. The National Committee is also producing a documentary on microfinance activities in Comoros.

Contact:
Chair: Monsieur Said Abdallah Cheikh, Président du Comité National des Comores
Email: sacheikhsoilihi@yahoo.fr

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Costa Rica
Costa Rica is organizing events and press conferences to raise public awareness on microfinance as a tool in the fight against poverty. Thematic discussions and some research papers focused on legal matters are also being organized.

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Croatia
In Croatia, savings and loans cooperatives are the main instruments of microcredit throughout the country. According to the law regulating such cooperatives, financing for microcredits are acquired from various sources including public administration at national, country and local levels, the Croatian Bank for Development and Reconstruction, different funds, unions and associations as well as international organizations, which represent majority of donations. Croatian civil society is also actively involved in reaching the most vulnerable population groups such as the low-income people residing in Areas of Special State Concern.

Public initiatives of the government and civil society, as well as local economic development agencies and business support centers have made plans to increase Croatia's awareness of microcredit in 2005. Their objective is to share how business and development services can utilize microcredits to promote community development at national, country and local levels, especially in areas of Special State Concern, where the majority of low income people in Croatia live. Plans are also underway to strengthen capacity building in order to empower people in Croatia's most vulnerable categories to use available microcredits to sustain and further develop their livelihood.

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Democratic Republic of Congo
The Democratic Republic of Congo is participating in the Global Microentrepreneurship Awards Programme.

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Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic is participating in the Global Microentrepreneurship Awards Programme.

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Ecuador
Ecuador has formed a Focal Point. To raise awareness about the International Year of Microcredit and the benefits of microfinance, the Focal Point organized a launching event consisting of conferences on diverse microfinance themes. It is organizing forums in four different Ecuadorian regions to analyze the microfinance services in the country. It will also hold training sessions for future trainers on microcredit management and the development of strategic plans, and it will build a partnership strategy in order to strengthen current partnerships between MFIs in Ecuador. Ecuador's Focal Point is also making an effort in building commitment beyond the year 2005 by analyzing its regulatory and legal framework for microfinance services.

Contact:
Ricardo Zurita
Email: rzurita@rfr.org.ec

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Egypt
Egypt is participating in the Global Microentrepreneurship Awards Programme. Among other events, it is co-sponsoring an Italian workshop on microcredit. Egypt is also launching a media campaign including a prime time TV interview, articles in the national newspapers, and a visit by journalists to micro-borrowers. Egypt is disseminating a policy document "A national strategy for Microfinance," the outcome of a year long consultative process involving more than 200 stakeholders. It is also building a database of MFIs for donors and practitioners.

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El Salvador
In El Salvador, the Ministry of Economy through the National Committee of the Microenterprises (CONAMYPE), with the support of the United Nations Development Programme (PNUD) established the National Committee to celebrate the launch of the International Year of Microcredit. The Committee is composed of representatives from four organizations who provide microcredit services, five governmental institutions, and three organisms of international cooperation. For operative effects, the Committee created an executive committee and a press committee.

The National Committee efforts will focus on elevating the conscience degree in the public and private sectors, on the importance and contribution of microcredit in the economic development of El Salvador, especially in layers of the Salvadorian population with less opportunities and resources. In consequence, a work plan has elaborated, that anticipates the buildings of proposals and recommendations of policies and legal frame in order to contribute to the improvement of the sectors, promoting special events like fairs, exhibitions and prizes to micro-enterprisers and offers of microcredit services; presentations of studies and research; and a campaign of communication through the different social mass media of the country.

Contact:
Chair: Haydeé de Trigueros, Executive Director CONAMYPE
41 Ave. Nte. o Av. Scouts de El Salvador
# 115, Edif. Roosevelt.
San Salvador, El Salvador
Tel: 503 22-60 9261
Fax: 503 22-60 9259
Email: trigueros@conamype.gob.sv
Web: www.conamype.gob.sv; www.undp.org.sv

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Finland
Finland is organizing exchange visits where practitioners will learn about the Finnish microcredit sector.

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France
France's National Committee has sought to support its Ministry of Foreign Affairs in strengthening the microfinance sector in countries emerging from crisis. In June 2005, the International Paris Conference on Microfinance took place and was opened by President Jacques Chirac. In September 2005, the Paris authorities organized a seminar about microfinance in urban areas, in partnership with Adie and PlanetFinance. A microfinance symposium entitled, "Microfinance within Sustainable Development: Assessments and Challenges," is scheduled for November 2005 wherein each of six lectures will be followed by a debate and the symposium will be concluded with a research synthesis.

Contact:
Chairs: Martha Stein-Sochas, Anne Clerk
5 Rue Roland Barthes
75598 Paris cedex 12, France
Tel: 33 1 53 44 36 85; 33 1 53 44 41 51
Fax: 33 1 53 44 37 33
Email: stein-sochasm@afd.fr; clerca@afd.fr

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Gabon
Gabon is engaged in building a partnership program between university students and multilateral organizations for the realization of MDGs. A conference was organized by the Interuniversity Post Graduated Program in Economics at Omar Bongo University on microfinance impact in the fulfillment of MDGs in Gabon.

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Germany
The German National Committee consists of members from the following sectors: the government, local banks/bank associations, nonprofit/microfinance networks/NGOs, private sector, and multilateral organizations. In order to increase public awareness and understanding of microfinance in Germany, the National Committee is creating a brochure, holding an exhibition on microfinance, and launching a web site. Additionally, a documentary film in Mali has already been produced and broadcasted on German television.

Joint high-level events, involving relevant implementing agencies, the Federal Ministries and banking institutions are scheduled. A conference was held with the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development on June 10, 2005 in Bonn and a technical conference was held in Frankfurt on June 23, 2005. On October, 26, 2005, Germany's celebration of the International Year of Microcredit will close with a high-level political conference in Berlin, entitled "Savings Bank Foundation of International Cooperation."

Contact:
Chair: Ulrike Haupt
Federal German Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (Bundesministerium fur Wirtschaftliche Zusammenarbeit und Entwicklung, BMZ), Head of Private Sector Division
Friderich-Ebert-Alle 40
53113 Bonn, Germany
Tel: 49-0- 228 535 0/535 3500/3230/3774/3775
Email: ulrike.haupt@bmz.bund.de; (receptionist: uta.goldmann@bmz.bund.de)
Website: http://www.bmz.de/en/issues/Microcredit/index.asp

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Ghana
Ghana has established a National Committee with members from the government, bank associations, nonprofits/NGOs, and multilateral agencies. Ghana held an event in November 2004 to launch the International Year of Microcredit. The National Committee is engaging in activities to commemorate the Year and increase awareness on microfinance as a tool for poverty reduction in Ghana. It is planning activities for the celebration of the Year with key players participating in the celebrations. The National Committee is also focused on engaging the private sector in its efforts. Ghana is holding meetings, conferences, and special events to discuss best practices, promote public awareness, and enhance the performance of the microfinance sector. It is also developing a website. The National Committee is working to improve training and tools, supervision, and regulation. It is developing strategies and recommendations to make microfinance an effective tool for building inclusive and sustainable financial services for the economically active poor and as a means to achieving the MDGs in Ghana. The Committee is producing a report with recommendations on a National Strategic Framework for Microfinance in Ghana. It also participating in the GMA Programme.

Contact:
Chair: Gladys Ghartey, Coordinator, Microfinance Unit, Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning
Tel: 233 21 686163
Email: gladysghartey@yahoo.com

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Grenada
Grenada is integrating all government-controlled microcredit finance institutions under one central umbrella body.

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Guatemala
Guatemala's National Committee is creating a work plan in the area of microfinance. The National Committee is organizing a 2-day event with over 300 participants, which will be opened by the country's Vice-President and closed by the President.

Contact:
Chair: Lic. Carlos Herrera Castillo, Vice Minister of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MIPYME) of the Ministry of Economics
8a. Avenida 10-43, Zona 1, Nivel 6 del Ministerio de Economía
Tel: 2-253-1459 Ext. 6402
Email: cherrera@mail.mineco.gob.gt

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Guinea Bissau
The Ministry of Economy and Finance in Guinea Bissau took the initiative to celebrate the launch of the International Year of Microcredit in November 2004, in collaboration with the Ministry of Social Solidarity, Family and Poverty Reduction, Central Bank of Western Africa, United Nations Development Programme and microfinance stakeholders.

Guinea Bissau has established a National Committee which consists of members from the government, central bank, nonprofits/NGOs, private sector, and multilateral agencies. The Committee is organizing quarterly events in the capital and in three provinces of the country. A meeting in the Eastern Province is also being organized by the National Committee where the President will be present along with members of the central and local governments, private partners, and others. The Committee is also working on a website, a video, and organizing trainings on arrears management, interest rate setting, and financial and risk management. The National Committee is conducting a study to select MFI partners that it is going to support for the next three years, helping them with a business plan, capacity building, and in providing a credit line to improve access for the poor.

Contact:
Chair: Excellence Mr. Issufo Sanha, Ministry of Economy
Ministerio da Economia
Avenida Amilcar Cabral
CP no 6, Bissau, Guinea-Bissau
Tel: 205140
Email: isufsanha@yahoo.fr; issufosanha@hotmail.com

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Hungary
Hungary has a National Committee consisting of representatives from the government, UNDP, academia, and the central bank. In June 2005, the Committee organized a conference "SME development and Microfinance in Hungary" and issued a press release. The Committee is working to coordinate local fund raising initiatives, improve the legal structure in favor of MFIs, and develop a microfinance strategy which will be implemented in 2007 - 2013. It is also seeking relevant media and PR opportunities.

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India
India is participating in the Global Microentrepreneurship Awards Programme. It is also undertaking other initiatives in celebration of the IYM including the IYM Conference "Inclusion, Impact & Innovation in the Microfinance Industry" and the presentation of a paper on microfinance and women's empowerment.

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Indonesia
Indonesia's National Committee is composed of members from the government, private sector, local banks/bank associations, UNDP, nonprofit/microfinance networks/NGOs, and academia. The activities of the National Committee include research to better understand and promote the microfinance sector and long term commitment building activities. The National Committee plans to map out issues and constraints relating to poverty alleviation; identify and evaluate policies that are imposed on small businesses and MFIs; and conduct coordination meetings between concerned businesses and institutions. The Committee aims to facilitate dialogue between different stakeholders and address needs for micro-businesses and MFIs.

Further, Indonesia plans to undertake publicity of programs and activities in which microfinance is espoused in a sustainable, market oriented way; use Micro-entrepreneurship Awards to encourage microfinance-related activities; and encourage the sharing of expertise with success stories and lessons-learned. To promote the microfinance sector, the National Committee supports the establishment of a forum for bank and non-bank financial institutions and supports the appointment of a Network Advisor. There are also plans to host several national gatherings and dialogues in many parts of the country.

The Committee is engaging in the restructuring of the financial policy sector with the purpose of eliminating distortions taking place in micro finance market and simplifying regulations for microcredit distribution system, and is accelerating the issuance of a Credit Collateral Law. Also, the Committee has realized the need for an effective mechanism to channel 'idle funds' currently being reserved in several major government owned financial institutions to micro businesses and to facilitate establishment of 'APEX Bank'. The National Committee also plans to contribute to the formulation of UN Blue Book.

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Iran
Iran has established a National Committee with representatives from the government, banks, academia, and nonprofits/NGOs. The Committee's activities include implementing a Social Mobilization and Microcredit Program (SAPAP) and holding two half day workshops to promote and clarify the concept of "inclusiveness" with respect to micro-credit. The Committee is organizing eight workshops in microfinance training, two national seminars, and a 6-person study tour. It is launching a pilot institution-building initiative, a pilot study, and statistical database. Iran is also producing documents on the "microfinance existing situation" in Iran and on "microfinance standards and techniques."

Contact:
Ali Farzin
UNDP, UN Building, No. 39, Shahrzad Blvd.
Darrouss, Tehran, Iran
Tel: 021-2869309
Fax: 021-2869547
Email: ali.farzin@undp.org

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Italy
An Italian National Committee for the 2005 Year of Microcredit (INCYM) was launched on the 29th of October 2004, and has since been holding regular sessions. This body was generated by the Italian Directorate General for Development Cooperation within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and is composed of academics and researchers as well as professionals from the public and the private sectors alike (ministries, banks, micro-credit institutes and foundations, NGOs). The INCYM will promote a new role for donor countries to facilitate rather than directly supply financial services.

The INCYM agenda for the upcoming months includes a number of national and international events such as a conference that will gather all national committees for the 2005 Year of Microcredit from the EU Member States and an Euro-Mediterranean conference to be held in Rome in October 2005.

The Italian Directorate General for Development Cooperation has already pledged €1.5 million for the activities of the INCYM and more resources are going to be disbursed to the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) for funding projects related to microcredit.

Contact:
Chair: H.E. Mr. Mario Baccini, Minister for Public Administration, President of the Italian National Committee and Gian Paolo Aloi
Ministero degli Esteri
Piazzale della Farnesina, 1
Roma 00194 Italy
Tel: 39 06 39614136
Email: gianpaolo.aloi@esteri.it
Website: www.annodelmicrocredito.org

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Ivory Coast
The National Committee of Ivory Coast is comprised of representatives from the government, local banks/bank associations, multilateral organizations, and UNDP. Its activities include the inauguration of the National Committee, a seminar on the national strategy for the microfinance, and an open doors event dedicated to the microfinance sector. The Committee aims to promote microfinance in Ivory Coast with the involvement of all stakeholders. It is also planning recommendations to promote microfinance beyond 2005.

Contact:
Chair: Monsieur Charles Koffi DIBY
Directeur Général du Trésor et de la Comptabilité Publique, Secrétariat (Président) du Comité National de Coordination de l'Année Internationale du Microcrédit de Côte d'Ivoire.
Email: diby_charles@tresor.gov.ci
Website: www.tresor.gov.ci/investir/micro_fin.htm

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Jamaica
Jamaica has formed a National Committee which is holding consultations involving various stakeholders to devise a strategy on creating an inclusive and sustainable financial sector. The consultations cover four strategic regions of the country on a range of issues that include information technology, agro-business, and development and tourism, among others. The Committee has planned four regional forums and a National Symposium on Microfinance, with speakers from Jamaica and the surrounding region to highlight microfinance issues. In addition, it is cosponsoring the International Disaster Day October 12th, 2005 symposium on the role of micro-credit in disaster mitigation, with the National Disaster Organisation.

Contact:
Chair: Maureen Webber
Development Options Limited
Tel: 978-5935, 469-4000, 920-6254,
Fax: 927-9553
Email: lornamfw@yahoo.com

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Jordan
Jordan is celebrating the IYM with participation in the Global Microentrepreneurship Awards Programme. In addition, it is conducting a study on the investment regulatory framework and a study on the challenges facing micro-entrepreneurs, particularly in regards to marketing. It is establishing working groups, a policy paper, and partnerships relevant to microfinance. The government, in collaboration with UNDP and USAID, is preparing a new National Human Development Report on microfinance. The report will provide an in-depth analysis microfinance in Jordan, as well as the national conditions which have a direct influence on the effectiveness of microfinance as a development tool. In addition, Jordan's H.M. Queen Rania has been active in promoting microfinance during several occasions. The country is also developing a 5 year strategic plan to expand outreach of microfinance across the country.

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Kazakhstan
In Kazakhstan, about 25,000 people receive microcredit as a result of a program adopted in 1998 aimed at reducing poverty, unemployment, and developing entrepreneurship. The Committee for Support of Small Business under the Ministry of Industry and Trade is the coordinating agency on microcredit and jointly with the Ministry of Agriculture is responsible for formulating a Programme for Microcredit Development. Several laws on microcredit organizations were adopted last year to promote access of entrepreneurs to financial resources.

CGAP and the Microfinance Centre (MFC) for Central and Eastern Europe and the New Independent States opened the Central Asian Microfinance Center (CAMFC) in Almaty, and CGAP/UNCDF held international training for donors in Almaty. Kazakhstan is holding national and regional microfinance conferences. The Government of Kazakhstan is also planning to adopt a state program on microcredit for 2005-2007.

The main IYM microfinance events will take place in November 2005, when both a regional workshop and the launch of a UNDP microfinance theme report are planned. The workshop called "Building Sustainable Microfinance in RBEC, UNDP Community of Practice Workshop" will be three days long and will bring together experts to discuss microfinance in Central Asia. The UNDP theme report is called "Microfinance in Kazakhstan: opportunities and challenges."

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Kenya
In Kenya, the activities in support of the Year coincide with the work of the Association of Microfinance Institutions in Kenya. Kenya's National Committee draws from a broad range of 22 organizations representing government, microfinance institutions, and informal sector umbrella organizations. Plans include the mapping of microfinance institutional presence throughout the country to ascertain where there is a need for a stronger or better services and village level activities with "open days" to promote microfinance institutions in areas where there is most need.

To raise public awareness about microfinance, newspaper supplements in "The Nation" and "The Standard" are publicizing the work of microfinance institutions and other relevant stakeholders. Provincial capitals are hosting guest speakers and exhibitions where microfinance institutions can explain microcredit schemes and facilitate the opening of new accounts. Throughout the Year, workshops, conferences, and school based programs are scheduled to disseminate knowledge about microfinance and local activities are planned to promote microfinance in eight provinces through parades, exhibits with awards, discussions, road shows, and other entertainment. Publicity materials including T-shirts, caps, and fliers are distributed. Awards will be given to institutions for innovative practices in the sector. In November 2004, an event was organized where the Vice President gave a speech together with the Minister of Finance, the Minister of Planning, the UNDP Resident Representative, the Equity Building Society, and a leading microentrepreneur.

Contact:
Chair: Beatrice Sabana
Association of Microfinance Institutions
Ndemi Close, Ndemi Road (off Ngong Road)
P.O. Box 10701-00100
Tel: 254-2-576799 or 254-2-561090/1
Email: amfikenya@wananchi.com; b_sabana@iymc.org
Website: www.amfikenya.org; www.iymc.org

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Kyrgyzstan
Kyrgyzstan is participating in the International Year of Microcredit.
More information coming soon.

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Lebanon
Lebanon is participating in the Global Microentrepreneurship Awards Programme.

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Liberia
Liberia is participating in the Global Microentrepreneurship Awards Programme.

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Liechtenstein
In September 2005, Liechtenstein held a microfinance workshop aimed at bankers and finance people. The aims of the workshop included creating public awareness, disseminating information, and capturing the attention of investors. The workshop is intended to be a preparation to a two year seminar on development and best practices to be held in the future. The country web site is:
http://www.led.li/content/home/termindetail.php?dataId=20

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Luxembourg
The National Committee of Luxembourg is comprised of the government, local banks/bank associations, nonprofit/microfinance networks/NGOs, private sector, and multilateral organizations. The Committee has planned to focus on the harmonization of microfinance at the European level, awareness-raising in the banking sector, and financing for the agricultural sector. An inventory of competences and priority themes has been taken and will be presented at a workshop in 2005.

The Committee launched its public awareness campaign in April 2005 with a press conference. Since then, public awareness initiatives have included a quarterly newsletter, publication of studies, print media (press releases, newspaper articles, etc.), and the maintenance of Luxembourg's microfinance website at www.microfinance2005.lu.

Among other events, a 60-person, two or three-day conference is being planned with the intention of including participants from various sectors to create synergy and efficiency between European microfinance actors. A microfinance week is planned for October 17 -19, 2005, wherein several topics will be discussed including rural finance and awareness-raising amongst commercial banks in Luxembourg. In November, Luxembourg will celebrate the International Year of Microcredit with seminars, roundtables, as well as a conference to present the conclusions of academic studies on microfinance.

Contact:
Chair: Thierry Lippert
Email: Thierry.lippert@mae.etat.lu
Website: www.microfinance2005.lu

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Madagascar
Madagascar has established a National Committee with members from the government, UNDP, multilateral organizations, local banks/bank associations, cooperation agencies, and nonprofits/microfinance networks/NGOs. The Committee aims to improve the legal framework, develop partnerships, reinforce the technical and financial capacities of financial institutions, and elaborate a National Policy of Microfinance. Its web site is http://www.madamicrofinance.mg

In March of 2005, Madagascar's National Committee opened its celebration of the International Year of Microcredit with a round table to discuss mobilization of resources and the creation of a national strategy for implementing microfinance. In May, it participated in the formulation and consolidation of the Blue Book. In June, a meeting between different stakeholders took place, which resulted in the allocation of additional financial resources to microfinance. In July, the President signed a law relative to Financial Institutions controls. Under the title of "Overcoming Poverty through Microcredit," the National Committee is planning a week long celebration of the International Year. The Committee is also planning on participating in the International Conference of the AFMIN (African Network of Microfinance) to be held in late November.

Contact:
Chair: Francis Blaise Rajoelina
Coordonateur National de la Microfinance
Direction Generale Du Tresor, Ministere De L'Economie, Des Finances et du Budget
BP: 616 Antaninarenina
Bât du Trésor 3ème étage, Porte 303
Antananarivo 101
Madagascar
Tel: 261 20 22 383 85
Fax: 261 20 22 621 95
Email: coordmicrofinance@netclub.mg
Website: www.onu.dts.mg; http://www.madamicrofinance.mg

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Malawi
The Malawi National Committee is comprised of members from the government, academia, and nonprofit/microfinance networks/NGOs. Malawi has held a press conference and launched a media campaign to increase general public awareness on microfinance. Additionally, the National Committee is holding cooperative workshops and a national conference to highlight microfinance issues in Malawi. Malawi also has a resource center for MFIs and other stakeholders, known as the The Malawi Microfinance Network (MAMN). MAMN works in the areas of information dissemination, capacity building, benchmarking and performance monitoring, advocacy and lobbying, and resource mobilization.

Contact:
Chair: Mr. Sylvester Kadzola
General Manager of the Malawi Union of Savings and Credit Cooperatives (MUSCCO)
Website: www.undp.org.mw

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Malaysia
A seminar on "Empowering through Microcredit" to kick off the launch of the IYM was held in Malaysia. The country is enhancing awareness of microcredit through collaborative efforts to develop and implement a communication campaign. Malaysia is also considering the production of a book/knowledge product on microcredit financing in the country.

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Mali
Following the declaration of the first Summit of Microfinance in 1997, the government of Mali in 1998 adopted a National Strategy composed of an Action Plan that would be used as an instrument to fight poverty and to promote the development of microfinance. This action plan was structured around numerous concerns and strategic axes:
• The role of the government and its commitment as technical operator in the creation of MFIs
• The reinforcement of institutional capabilities of MFIs
• The development and securitization of financing for MFIs
• The access of vulnerable groups and the geographic coverage of microfinance services

The 1999-2002 Action Plan outlined global objectives for the diffusion and development of MFIs, and the accomplishment of the Summit on Microcredit's recommendations. Special attention was given to "help hundreds of thousands of families among the poorest, particularly women, securing loans that will permit them to work on independent activities as well as offering them other financial services and other supports for their business development. According to the Action Plan, by the end of 2002, 560,000 microentrepreneurs were expected to attend.

Contact:
Bakary Diarra
Coordinator of the Support Organ for the Descentralized Financial Systems CAS/SFD - Mali
Email: diarraf@datatech.net.ml

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Mauritania
Mauritania is hosting a two-day event titled "Open door to microfinance" with exhibitions, conferences, debates, and distribution of awards by the President of Mauritania. It is also convening a national forum on the challenges facing the growth of microcredit. It is organizing promotional activities, which target rural and semi-urban areas, as well as the female workers who have been recently laid off in the textile industry. The country is also sponsoring a caravan which will be traveling across the 12 regional capital of Mauritania holding exhibitions and workshops on microfinance themes.

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Mauritius
As a consequence of the 1997 Summit of Microfinance, activities listed by the government of Mauritius to raise public awareness around microfinance included the following:
• Awareness campaign for re-enforcement and promotion of microcredit
-Targeting rural and peri-urban areas; and
-Focusing on workers, particularly women who have been laid off from the EPZ textile sector
• Launch special radio/TV programmes on specific topics pertaining to the management and development of microentreprise/micro-credit
• Hold Debate and group discussions with microentrepreneurs
• Produce brochures/pamphlets on micoentreprenuers/microfinance
• Establish a directory for microentrepreneurs
• Organize a Micro-credit Awards ceremony with Exhibition of best work of microcredit/microentreprise beneficiaries - Mauritius and Rodrigues
• Organize an Expo Sale on special occasions (World Food Day, World Poverty day, etc)
• Design and implement an appropriate Integrates Training Programme in Microcredit development
• Consider organizing a National Consultation Forum on challenges facing the Mauritian micro-credit development with all stake holders together with local and international experts

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Mexico
Mexico's National Committee has plans to host forums and seminars surrounding various aspects of microfinance. This year, it has held The International Microfinance Forum with participation from President Vicente Fox and a seminar about Social Aspects of Microfinance in Mexico. It has also hosted a microfinance event in the city of Puebla and a Second Forum on Women's Empowerment. The Committee is organizing an event in the city of Leon and another event with President Fox's participation. The National Committee is also launching approximately 10 new MFIs branches.

Contact:
Chair: Dr. María del Carmen Díaz Amador
National Coordinator of Microfinance Program on the Ministry of Economy
Tel: (5255) 56299514
Fax: (5255) 56299500x 27697
Email: diaz@economia.gob.mx

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Moldova
Moldova has established a National Committee and is implementing a national awareness program on the IYM by putting information on the Ministry of Economy website, publishing press columns, distributing informative materials and broadcasting thematic discussions on radio/TV stations. The country is hosting seminars, trainings, and round tables at the national and local levels involving representatives from commercial banks, MFIs, and small business agencies in order to inform them about the current financing system and the conditions for crediting and lending. It is also editing a set of methodical and instructive publications in microfinance domain.

Moldova is developing the National Program of Strategic Development that will include concrete measures for the development of microfinance as a tool for poverty reduction. The country is working to enlarge access of its small and medium enterprises to the small business support services, as well as to the financial market that is not covered by the commercial banks services. Additionally, a training program is being developed as is a network of regional funds to support small businesses and loan guarantee organizations. In addition, the country is attempting to harmonize the legislative framework to create optimal conditions for the microfinance system.

Contact:
Chair: Iulia Iabangi
Head of Small Business Development Department, Ministry of Economy
Email: iuliaiabanji@moldova.md

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Monaco
Monaco has been involved in the arrangement of four local microcredit offices in Africa, the beneficiaries of which are women in extreme poverty (less than a dollar a day). The country has also created a special fund with a Moroccan bank in order to support revenue generating activities in rural areas. Other examples of Monaco's activities include the creation of a breeding cooperative in a village and the support of women groups in the Dakar Region.

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Mongolia
The National Committee of Mongolia is represented by government agencies, nonprofits, private sector, and multilateral agencies. To commence the IYM, the Committee held a National Summit on "Microcredit and Entrepreneurship," attended by over 1400 participants. The Committee is also organizing a series of special meetings, round tables, and conferences involving different stakeholders.

Mongolia's National Committee is creating a database of in-country MFIs and establishing a local MFI rating system. It is developing a microfinance training toolkit for the local level and developing key principles and operating criteria for MFIs, government and donors. The Committee is also providing support to microfinance trainers, assisting local MFIs in becoming members of international networks, and establishing a Microfinance Competence Center. It also is creating national and international networks to promote information sharing and coordination. The National Committee has published two reports regarding the status of microfinance: "Sub-sector Review of Microfinance in Mongolia" and "Sub-sector Review of the Legal Environment of Microfinance in Mongolia." In addition, the Committee is implementing a project on microfinance market analysis to create a microfinance development strategy in collaboration with different stakeholders.

The National Committee is raising public awareness through conferences, frequent radio/TV programs, a CD-Rom, a web site, and newspaper articles. Mongolia is convening a conference to spotlight microentrepreneur award winners and conducting outreach to university students. Mongolia's National Committee plans to adopt a long term strategy that would include a traveling caravan to promote microfinance in the rural areas and a new UNDP microfinance initiative for at least 2 years.

Contact:
Chair: Mr. Zandanshatar
Chairman of the National Committee
Contact via Ms. Ulzii (Secretary)
Tel: 976-11-318185
Fax: 976-328701
Email: ulziisuren.j@xacbank.org
Website: www.yearofmicrocredit.mn

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Morocco
Morocco's National Committee was established in February of 2005. Its membership includes representatives from the government, bank associations, nonprofits/NGOs, and multilateral agencies. The official launch ceremony of the IYM was held in February and was presided over by the Prime Minister; a press release was published and an Impact Study of Microfinance was also presented. A series of forums have been held and more are scheduled for the rest of the year. Workshops and conferences are scheduled throughout the year to raise awareness of microfinance issues throughout the country.

Morocco is organizing a series of professional networks targeted to reinforce the impact of microfinance at the national level; partners include Ministries and agencies of development, universities, the press, enterprises, financial sector, and civil society. The country also plans to be involved with the Global Microentrepreneurship Awards Programme.

The National Committee is developing recommendations for the evolution of a regulatory framework and is conducting a study on the perceptions of microfinance, governance of associations, and refinancing and structure of the funds. Additionally, the Committee in Morocco is developing an investment fund dedicated to microfinance and a strategy of intervention for the rural sector.

Contact:
Chair: Leila Barakat
leila.barakat@undp.org

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Mozambique
In July 2005, Mozambique held a day of study on "Microcredit and Local Human Development." In September, a regional forum on microfinance in the East was held on the subject of: "Microcredit, a tool for local socio-economic development." Another forum is planned for November on the subject of "Microfinance, a vector for social development." Mozambique also has plans to hold a seminar to launch a National Microfinance Strategy, a directory of microfinance institutions in Mozambique, and a study on rural savings capacities. UNDP in Mozambique is working on a project known as "Upstream" to facilitate the establishment of a regulatory and operational microfinance environment and provide capacity building and technical assistance for the provision of financial services.

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Nepal
The National Committee of Nepal is committed to the International Year of Microcredit by increasing awareness, conducting research, and working to restructure laws in order to build inclusive financial sectors. The members of the Committee include those from the government, nonprofit and private sectors.

The activities of the Nepal National Committee include using appropriate media to raise awareness on the importance and ability of microfinance services, organizing microfinance training programs, and disseminating success stories. The National Committee has published a report, a pamphlet called "Common Interest," and a magazine that cover IYM activities. Its media campaign also includes 10 news clips/short articles and a CD containing "TV Interaction Program on Microfinance." Documentaries on "Revolution against Poverty" as well as the practices of Chhimek Bikas Bank, one of the nine major MFIs in Nepal, have also been made. Additionally, the Committee promotes capturing best practices in microfinance and disseminating them through media, workshops, and audio visuals. An event was held in September 2005 called "Interaction Program on the Linkages between Microfinance and Millennium development Goals: How Policy Makers Can Help Increase Impact."

The Committee is undertaking various kinds of research surrounding microfinance and is developing future strategies to increase access to sustainable microfinance services for the rural poor. Areas of research include microfinance in conflict situation, problems and constraints of MFIs serving in the hills, and sustainability of information savings and credit organizations. Nepal is also designing and updating monitoring/reporting tools. In addition, the Committee is organizing and providing capacity building activities to MFIs. The Committee is also reviewing microfinance-related legislation and suggesting appropriate legislation which will allow MFIs to grow and provide sustainable services.

Contact:
Chair: Dr. Harihar Dev Pant
Tel: 977.1.4228369
Email: hdpant@hotmail.com
Website: www.cmfnepal.org

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Netherlands
The Netherlands National Committee includes representation from the government, local banks/bank associations, nonprofit/microfinance networks/NGOs, private sector, and cooperation agencies. The Committee aims to attract new participants into the sector and strengthen partnerships between institutions within the Netherlands as well as partnerships between institutions in developing countries. The Committee is working on joint activities in common areas of interest such as syndicated loans and other financial arrangements, country surveys, piloting of new approaches, etc. It is also working to strengthen the expertise of the member organizations through knowledge-sharing on best practices and accepted standards within the sector.

Since the opening event of the International Year of Microcredit in November 2004, the Netherlands has implemented and maintained operation of a website (www.microfinance.nl). The Dutch National Committee is organizing additional initiatives with the goal of increasing general public awareness and visibility, including the publication of the case study results and joint technical reviews. The Committee is maintaining a comprehensive database on the Dutch microfinance field, formulating measurement indicators, and doing impact studies in microfinance. The Committee is also financing experiments on reaching remote and poor clients. In order to enhance the impact of advocacy, the Committee is lobbying to influence policy development.

Contact:
Chair: Mr Stijn Albregts
Chair of the Netherlands National Committee (Netherlands Platform for Microfinance - NPM)
Tel: 31-(0)70-3421831
Fax: 31-(0)70-3614461
Email: info@microfinance.nl

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Nicaragua
Nicaragua's National Committee was established in February 2005 by initiative of the Microfinance Association of Nicaragua (ASOMIF). It is includes representatives of the government, universities, the Federation of Agriculture and Agro-industry Cooperatives (FENACOOP) and ASOMIF.

Nicaragua has planned a Children's Tile-Art Awards program in which children submit art around the theme, "Microfinancing Helps Poor Children," with the goal of raising public awareness. Other publicity initiatives include a press conference, monthly publication, quarterly microfinance bulletin and twice-yearly magazine to highlight microfinance and the objectives of the International Year of Microcredit. Nicaragua's National Committee is planning several conferences, including the Central American Gender and Microfinance Forum, and the Second-Annual Seminar on Rural Microfinance in Central America that will include exhibitions of Microenterprise products and awards for best the products. Additionally, Nicaragua will print a stamp commemorating the International Year of Microcredit. With the objective to foster research on microfinance themes, the National Committee will organize two competitions directed at professionals and university students: the Nicaraguan Journalist Award on microfinance research and the Microfinance Investigation Award directed at university students.

Contact:
Chair: Maria Cristina Arguello
Email: spar@ideay.net.ni

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Niger
A National Committee has been created in Niger under the Ministry of Economics and Finance. Its mission is to coordinate the IYM activities and its objectives are: to prepare and organize the communications activities; raise awareness and promote microfinance among the population, civil society, public bodies, private sector and donors; develop a final achievements document for the Committee in charge of the Year at the UN; and mobilize the necessary resources to achieve the goals of Year. It is also creating a regional subcommittee. Niger is promoting online product sales, including products made at the "National Museum" where different associations of artisans work in specific fields, such as jewelry, leather, etc.

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Nigeria
Nigeria's National Committee consists of members from the government, central bank, local banks/bank associations, nonprofits/NGOs, private sector, UNDP and multilateral agencies. Its major activities include a web site (http://www.cenbank.org/microcredit/), a media campaign including radio and TV jingles (in three local languages), TV talk shows, and print media planned to reach at least 60 million Nigerians. The Committee is publishing a Nigerian Microfinance Newsletter, issuing press briefings, putting up billboards, and producing documentaries. Nigeria is hosting a national seminar to create general awareness on the IYM activities and an international conference focused on technical issues related microfinance practice. The National Committee is promoting microentrepreneur products through exhibitions and road show in six regions. The country is launching a Microfinance Policy and Regulatory Guidelines, raising funds, and conducting an impact study. Nigeria is also participating in the Global Microentrepreneurship Awards Programme.

Contact:
Chair: Tunde Lemo
Deputy Governor (Financial Sector Surveillance) Central Bank of Nigeria
Abuja, Nigeria
Tel: 234 (0) 9 616 38053; 234 (0) 9 616 38199
E-mail: tlemo@cenbank.org
Website: http://www.cenbank.org; http://www.cenbank.org/microcredit/

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Norway
In Norway, the Norwegian Development Network, a consortium of Norwegian NGOs, is planning concrete initiatives to promote the Year. It is planning to carry out a microfinance peer review process focusing on aid effectiveness and harmonization and is developing guidelines on financial services and financial case studies. Besides this, from February 17 to 18, Norway held a conference on "The added value of cultural diversity" that included a special workshop on the Year of Microcredit.

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Pakistan
Pakistan's National Committee is composed of members from several sectors of society including the government, central bank, local banks/bank associations, nonprofit/microfinance networks/NGOs, private sector, UNDP, and cooperation agencies.

The National Committee is planning activities to raise public awareness including production of a film/documentary, launching of a web site, appointment of a spokesperson on microfinance and hosting exposure visits for key journalists. It is inviting guest speakers at universities, holding a Walk for Microfinance and hosting two open forum talk shows. Further, Pakistan is engaging in publicity through stamps and ads on fertilizers and utility bills. It is publishing relevant articles on topics such as impact of microfinance, legal and regulatory framework for microfinance institutions, and a Pakistan Microfinance Sector Report. Pakistan is also involved in the Global Microentrepreneurship Awards Programme. In addition, the Committee plans to provide active input on the Steering Committee for the Regional Summit.

Contact:
Mr. Ashraf Khan, Chairperson; Mr. Tahir A. Shah, Vice Chair
Mr. Ashraf Khan, Chairperson Pakistan Microfinance Network, Director SMED
Mr. Tahir A. Shah, Vice Chair Pakistan Microfinance Network
2nd Floor, Block 14, Civic Centre, G-6
Islamabad, Pakistan
Tel: 092-021-021-9212431; 021-2453719
Fax: 092-021-9212506
Email: ashraf.khan@sbp.org.pk; rahmeenus@yahoo.com
Website: http://iymc-gma.com.pk

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Panama
Panama is supporting the Junior International Chamber, an NGO that is planning national workshops for young entrepreneurs within the IYM and MDG frameworks. The UNDP is also supporting another NGO, the EMPRETEC Foundation, in developing several "Community Entrepreneurs Developing Workshops."

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Peru
Peru is participating in the Global Microentrepreneurship Awards Programme.

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Philippines
In the Philippines, the National Committee is chaired by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (Central Bank of the Philippines) and is composed of key players in the field of microfinance from practitioners and policy makers to advocates. The Philippine celebration of the Year of Microcredit is anchored on the overarching objectives of building an appropriate policy environment, promoting sustainable microfinance institutions and developing responsive microfinance services that ultimately benefit the microfinance clients and improve the quality of their lives.

The Committee launched the IYM with Vice President Noli de Castro as the Keynote Speaker and 350 people in attendance. Since then, it has organized a mini-trade show of products of microentrepreneurs, started circulation of the 20-Piso banknote with IYM logo overprint, and placed whole page advertisements in 6 major daily newspapers and several magazines. It has developed 5,000 posters and 300,000 flyers on microfinance, and distributed nearly 90% of posters and 80% of flyers nationwide through various relevant networks. The Committee has also launched a web site www.microfinance.com.ph. Additionally, the National Committee has developed Microfinance Performance Standards and has seen the issuance of Presidential and Senate Proclamations on 2005 as the Philippine Year of Microfinance.

Numerous events and activities focusing on the following have been organized: best practices for practitioners, policy dialogues with stakeholders, practitioners' workshops and conferences, new microfinance technologies, and recognition of microfinance clients. The National Microfinance Summit was held in October 2005 with over 400 invitees, including the President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. The Philippine Declaration on Microfinance, which is the main action plan for microfinance in the Philippines, as well as the Memorandum of Agreement to adopt to the Uniform Set of Performance Standards for All Types of Microfinance Institutions were signed. At the event, a jingle for the International Year of Microcredit was played and an exhibit of products by microentrepreneurs took place.

Contact:
Chair: Governor Amando M. Tetangco, Jr., Governor, Central Bank of the Philippines
Contact via Ms. Pia Roman
518, 5-story Building, BSP Complex
Manila
Tel: (63-2) 523-6130
Fax: (63-2) 521-2629
Email: PRoman@bsp.gov.ph
Website: http://www.microfinance.com.ph;
http://www.bsp.gov.ph/about_bsp/microfinance/default.htm

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Poland
Poland's National Committee, in partnership with the Enterprise Development and Strengthening Program-Microfinance Coalition Component and Shorebank Advisory Services of Romania, held Poland's 8th Annual Microfinance Conference in Bucharest in May 2005. Over 400 sector experts, policy makers, donors and investors from 40 countries attended this 3-day conference to discuss microfinance issues. In the same month, the VIII Conference of Microlending Institutions in Central and Eastern Europe & the New Independent States was held in Bucharest (called "The Success of Microfinance: how to capitalize on the success and maximize benefits for the clients?"). In early June, Poland held a press conference to observe the 10th anniversary of Micro Fund, the largest microlending organization in Poland, established by the Polish-American Enterprise Fund (PAEF). The National Committee also hosted a competition for the best cartoon promoting microlending in June. In October, Poland will host a forum on microfinance policy for the countries of the former Soviet Union. The National Committee is also conducting a feasibility study - an analysis of demand and supply in the current financial market in Poland. At the end of the year, the Committee will host another competition on "The Best Product of MicroFirm 2005." Poland is also participating in the Global Microentrepreneurship Awards Programme.

Contact:
Chair: Mr. Grzegorz Galusek
Secretary: Ms. Elzbieta Dec: microfinance@mfc.org.pl
ul. Koszykowa 60/62 m 52
Warsaw, Poland
Tel: (48 22) 622 34 65
Fax: (488 22) 622 34 85
Email: microfinance@mfc.org.pl; grzegorz@mfc.org.pl
Website: http://www.unic.un.org.pl/rok_mikrokredytu/; www.mfc.org.pl

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Portugal
Portugal has established a Focal Point to celebrate activities of the IYM. The country plans to create a brochure on microcredit and the International Year on Microcredit. It is also planning a relevant seminar in November. It will publish information on the web site of the Portuguese Institute for Development Aid (IPAD).

Contact:
Carolina Estroia
Tel: 351 21 3824525
Fax: 351 21 3862140
Email: carolina.estroia@ipad.mne.gov.pt

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Romania
In partnership with Poland's National Committee, Romania held an 8th Annual Microfinance Conference in Bucharest in May 2005. Over 400 sector experts, policy makers, donors and investors from 40 countries attended this 3-day conference to discuss microfinance issues. Romania is hosting an end of year conference in celebration of the IYM.

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Russia
Russia's National Committee consists of representation from different sectors including the government, central bank, local banks/bank associations, nonprofit/microfinance networks/NGOs, private sector, and UNDP. Russia held a conference to kickoff the IYM which was attended by over 250 representatives from across sectors; this event was held in December 2004 was hosted by the Russian Microfinance Center. Russia is participating in the Global Microentrepreneurship Awards Programme.

Mr. Andrei V. Sharonov
Deputy Minister for Economic Development and Trade of the Russian Federation
1st Tverskaya-Yamskaya Str., 1/3, 125993, GSP-3, A-47
Moscow, Russia
Tel: 7-095-200-0353
Fax: 7-095-251-6965
Email: Sharonov@economy.gov.ru

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Senegal
Senegal's National Committee is comprised of members from the government, local banks/bank associations, nonprofit/microfinance networks/NGOs, multilateral organizations, and academia. The Committee is engaged in various activities in order to support the role of microfinance institutions in the country. Senegal has formed the first microfinance network in the country, developed workshops on microfinance and the Millennium Development Goals, and supported various forums about microfinance and the role of the banking sector. Senegal's National Committee is working for microfinance education, supporting the development of strong professionals' networks and engaging high-level public personalities.

Some specific examples of the Committee's activities include the launch of a web site for the Year and participation in the Blue Book workshop in Geneva. The National Committee also held a donors round table in order to raise funds to finance activities of the Year. Senegal celebrated the 10 years of existence of PANMECAS, one of the biggest MFIs in the country. Senegal also participated in the Paris Summit as well as regional forums, such as the African Association of Professionals in Microfinance (AFMIN) in Madagascar and West Africa Regional Forum organized by APIMEC, AFMIN and the Luxembourg Institute for the Autonumus Development (Structure d'Appui au Développement Autonome (ADA) de la Coopération Luxembourgeoise). Additionally, Senegal launched the Crédit Mutuel du Sénégal (CMS) office, the first microfinance network in Senegal and is participating in the Global Microentrepreneurship Awards Programme. Microfinance awards are promoted by President.

Contact:
Chair: Mr Tafsir Amadou Mbaye
Directeur de la Micro Finance, Ministère des Petites et Moyennes Enterprises de l'Entreprenariat Feminin et de la Microfinance
Tel: 00 (221) 822 36 94
Email: tafsirmabye@yahoo.fr
Website: http://senegal.portailmicrofinance.org/

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Sierra Leone
Sierra Leone is participating in the Global Microentrepreneurship Awards Programme.

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Singapore
The Asia Research Institute, the Department of Economics and the Department of Sociology of the National University of Singapore, supported by the Canadian International Development Research Centre, held an interdisciplinary workshop on October 7-8, 2005 called "From Moneylenders to Microfinance: the Southeast Asia's credit revolution in institutional, economic and cultural perspective". The workshop's key objectives were to analyze the successes of microfinance in countries as Thailand and Indonesia and question the limitations, failures, and adverse consequences of the credit revolution.

Contact:
Dr David Henley
Email: arihdef@nus.edu.sg
Asia Research Institute
National University of Singapore
AS7, Level 4, 5 Arts Link
Singapore 117570
Fax No: 6779 1428

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South Africa
In South Africa, a Focal Point has been established and the Department of Trade and Industry as well as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other stakeholders from the microfinance industry are leading the activities in support of the Year. Other stakeholders include local banks/bank associations, nonprofit/microfinance networks/NGOs, private sector, UNDP, cooperation agencies, and academia.

A seminar is planned to take place in Pretoria with the participation of the departments of Economic Development and Tourism and will address the challenges faced by microfinance institutions and share success stories and best practices. Other activities emphasize capacity building and training through the organization of workshops for young people, women and students, as well as include exhibitions, competitions, and conferences throughout the country. The week of November 7 - 11 is being declared a National Week for Microfinance.

The South African Micro-finance Apex Fund (SAMAF) has held consultations with local communities and an evaluation of the microfinance initiatives bringing in consultants from the PKSF in Bangladesh to compare best international practices. The SAMAF is also promoting the IYM through a website, a video, newsletters, and events. It is encouraging the formation and strengthening of microfinance networks and promoting microentrepreneur products.

The South African government has budgeted an amount of R300 million over the next three years to create institutional capacity and provide funding for pro-poor microfinance institutions and outreach. It has introduced various sets of legislation in Parliament to enable access to affordable financial products for the poor. It is also looking into creating an enabling regulatory framework to secure the savings of the poor and protect those involved in credit transactions.

Contact:
Lionel October, Deputy Director General, Department of Trade and Industry
Email: Lionelo@thedti.gov.za
Website: http://www.dti.gov.za/samaf/samaf.htm

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Spain
Spain's National Committee was created on July 29, 2005, under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation, to support and coordinate all activities related to the IYM. Its objectives are to coordinate activities related to the year, to represent Spain in all related International Conferences, to raise public awareness about microfinance, to disseminate information on microfinance projects developed by the Spanish International Cooperation Agency and other organizations, and to promote the participation of all the Spanish microfinance organizations in international conferences.

The National Committee includes members from the government, bank associations, microfinance networks, NGOs, Unions, private sector, and academia. The President of Honor is the Queen Sofía of Spain and the National Committee's chair is the Minister of Foreign Affairs.

Numerous organizations have been active in promoting microfinance in Spain. For instance, the International Asociation of Social and Credit Unions, (Asociación Internacional de Entidades de Crédito Social y Prendario) organized a National Convention on the future of microcredit in Spain, a National Microfinance Meeting to discuss experiences, challenges and solutions as well as a conference on Microcredit in Europe. It has also prepared the publication of a "White Book" (microfinance reference manual) for professionals in microfinance, and an article for FOSB and to be published in the magazine "The Experience of a Savings Bank to Combat Financial Exclusion." In addition, the International Association of Social and Credit Unions is creating a microcredit model in conjunction with PhD work on behalf of CECA (Spanish Confederation of Credit Entities) and FUNCAS (Foundation of Savings Entities). It is promoting University activities (discussions, roundtables, conferences) to build awareness about microcredit among students. Courses in Microfinance are planned at the University of Andalucia. Other plans include a traveling photographic exposition on microfinance at CECA and an accompanying book that will be published at the end of the year.

Contact:
Chair: Mr. Moratinos, The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, President of the National Committee;
Antonio Claret Garcia, Presidente Caja Granada
Mr Moratinos:
MINISTERIO DE ASUNTOS EXTERIORES Y DE COOPERACIÓN, Dirección: Plaza de la Provincia, 1 - 28012 Madrid, ESPAÑA
Mr Claret:
Sede Central de Caja GRANADA, Ctra. Armilla, 6. Planta 6, 18006 GRANADA, ESPAÑA
Tel: 91 379 97 00 (Ministry)
Email: presidente@caja-granada.es
Website: www.pignus.org

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Sweden
In Sweden, the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA) has produced its new microfinance guidelines and intends to communicate them widely during 2004 and 2005 to ensure a high quality and further expansion of Sweden's support to microfinance. In observance of the Year, SIDA made funds available for the Swedish Microfinance Network, a consortium of Swedish NGOs working in microfinance, to support activities in raising public awareness and knowledge about microfinance. It is also planning to carry out a microfinance peer review process focusing on aid effectiveness and harmonization and is developing donor guidelines on financial services and financial case studies.

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Switzerland
Switzerland is hosting a number of conferences. In November 2004, an event called "Big Finance Meets Microfinance at the Swiss Stock Exchange" was held. An SDC/seco Symposium: "Paths to Prosperity - Contributions of the financial sector to the attainment of the Millennium Development Goals" was hosted in Berne in June. Additionally, in August 2005, the SDC/seco Annual Conference in Fribourg was focused on microfinance and was called "Small Money - Big Impact: Banking with the Poor." A special edition on microfinance was published in the magazine "One World."

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Togo
The Togo Government has expressed its commitment by elaborating a microfinance national strategy for 2004-2008. This strategy aims to create a viable and sustainable microfinance sector that will be an integrated component of the financial sector, institutionally diversified, and varied in terms of products and services. Furthermore, it will cover the entire territory and operate within a legal framework.

Contact:
M. Kokoumeh FEDY
President of the Microfinance National Committee and president of the Professional Institutions of Microfinance (APIM-Togo), and General Director of FUCEC-TOGO
Tel : (228) 222 10 88
Fax : (228) 222 25 70
E-mail : fucec@tg.refer.org

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Trinidad and Tobago
Trinidad and Tobago has formed a National Committee with representatives from the government and nonprofit/microfinance networks/NGOs. In July 2005, the Committee organized an International Conference on Microcredit with the theme of "Institutional Strengthening of Microcredit Institutions: A Platform for Forging Entrepreneurship in the Caribbean." The conference was attended by 144 various stakeholders from Trinidad and Tobago and other countries of CARICOM (Caribbean Community and Common Market). In addition to the Conference, three other major activities for the IYM are in progress. These include 1) an Awards Programme recognizing microentrepreneurs whose lives have been enhanced by microcredit as well as acknowledging the contributions and achievements of microcredit institutions; 2) a School-Based Programme to sensitize secondary school students on microcredit and entrepreneurship. A competition is also being organized for the purpose of awarding prizes to outstanding schools; and 3) a Marketing Programme to promote activities planned for the year. Thus far, the Committee has published a two-page pull out in the national newspapers on the International Year of Microcredit as well as participated in television and radio interviews.

Contact:
Chair: Angelita Charles
Co-ordinator, Policy Unit, Enterprise Development Division in the Ministry of Labour and Small and Micro Enterprise Development (MLSMED)
Email: talits1@yahoo.com

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Tunisia
Tunisia has formed a National Committee with members from the government, central bank, and nonprofit/microfinance networks/NGOs. The National Committee is promoting the IYM through press conferences, a poster designed for the Year, an audiovisual documentary on microcredit in Tunisia, publicity ads, a press kit, open house days, a postage stamp, awards for best promoter and best credit agent, and a web site. It is specifically focusing on promotion in elementary and secondary schools, for groups with special needs, and abroad. Tunisia is hosting conferences, seminars, and workshops on topics such as microcredit as a tool against poverty, microcredit performance in Tunisia: impact and problems, and the partnership between microcredit and development. UNDP Tunisia is helping Solidarity Tunisian Bank (Banque Tunisienne de Solidarité - BTS) in finding experts in order to undertake an impact assessment study of microcredit schemes on employment and income. The Committee aims to involve universities and partner with international organizations.

Contact:
Chair: Ms Semia Mansour, Deputy Director for micro credits at the BTS
56 avenue Mohamed V - 1002 Tunis
Tel: (216) 71 844 040
Fax: (216) 71 799 285
Email: s_mansour_bts@yahoo.fr

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Turkey
Turkey has developed a National Committee which includes members from the government, local banks/bank associations, nonprofits/microfinance networks/NGOs, private sector, UNDP, cooperation agencies, and multilateral agencies. The Turkish National Committee is establishing a Microfinance Sector Development Project to facilitate microfinance discussions and to draft legislation on MFIs. It has proposed a bill on microfinance institutions and has opened a Microfinance Information Centre through 2005. The Committee is hosting thematic workshops on microfinance and organizing a national conference. It is working on policy papers on non-banking finance institutions and is organizing a provision for policy advice. Turkey's National Committee is establishing the Turkey Grameen microfinance project and is supporting microfinance product development.

Contacts:
Burcu Güvenek Arasli
Microfinance Sector Development
Project Manager
Tel : +90 312 454 1191
Fax : +90 312 496 1463
Email : burcu.arasli@undp.org

Berna Bayazit
Microfinance Sector Development
Program Associate
Tel : +90 312 454 1126
Fax : +90 312 496 1463
Email : berna.bayazit@undp.org

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Uganda
Uganda is creating a documentary capturing UNDP's contribution to microfinance development in the country, holding publicity events with local media and the press, and hosting a microcredit conference. In July, it published a newspaper supplement devoted to the IYM.

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United Kingdom
The United Kingdom established a National Committee consisting of members from the government, local banks/bank associations, nonprofit/microfinance networks/NGOs, private sector, and cooperation agencies. It kicked off the International Year of Microcredit in 2004 with a discussion featuring special guest Muhammad Yunus. More than 60 people from across the corporate, NGO and government divide attended the breakfast including Gareth Thomas, MP and Parliamentary Undersecretary of State at of the Department for International Development. The discussion at the meeting emphasized that the events planned for the Year must be designed to carry on after the close of 2005.

In November 2004, Citigroup launched the Microfinance Club and the London Stock Exchange launched the Year of Microfinance. A symposium at HSBC's London bank resulted in the "Blue Book on Building an Inclusive Financial Sector for Development." In February 2005, the first session of MF Students' Club at London School of Economics was held with a presentation of "Introduction to Microfinance" by Mosleh Ahmed of the Microinsurance Research Centre and PFUK." In June, UNIFEM and Royal Commonwealth Society held a joint seminar on "Sustaining Small Businesses - access to western markets and microfinance." Additionally, the UK National Committee is also holding an interactive exhibition on MF, implementing a Microfinance Awareness Branding strategy, working with All Party Parliamentary Group on Microfinance/Microcredit, and proposing special events.

Contact:
Chair: Dr. Phyllis SantaMaria, Roger Whitcomb
Tel: 44 207 839 0844; 44 771 500 4303
Email: psantamaria@planetfinance.org
Website: www.microfinanceworks.org

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United States
The USA National Committee is comprised of members from the government as well as multilateral organizations. On April 19, 2005, the United States hosted a large Microfinance Conference in Washington DC which was attended by students and professionals from various organizations within the public and private sectors. Among the many speakers was HRH Princess Mathilde of Belgium. Another conference was held in June. Some information is published on www.microlinks.org.

Contact:
Chair: Kate McKee
US Agency for International Development
1300 Pennsylvania Ave., NW, rm 2.11-11
Washington DC 20523-2110
Tel: 202-712-5578
Fax: 202-216-3228
Email: KMcKee@usaid.gov
Website: www.microlinks.org

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Uzbekistan
Uzbekistan's National Committee consists of representatives from various sectors including the government, central bank, local banks/bank associations, nonprofit/microfinance networks/NGOs, UNDP, cooperation agencies, and academia.

The country has developed a web site, www.microfinance.uz, and published articles to promote awareness. An issue of the magazine, "Economic Review," was devoted to the IYM and provided analyses of perspectives and challenges in development of microfinance in Uzbekistan. Uzbekistan also conducted a survey and based on its results, developed a draft decree. The Committee has drafted several documents including a draft report on "Microfinance Development in Uzbekistan" and a "Welfare Improvement Strategy Paper of the Republic of Uzbekistan for 2005-2010." In addition, the President has signed two decrees promoting the microfinance sector development (July and August 2005). Uzbekistan is also developing regional strategies and area based development projects.

In July 2005, a round table meeting on "Opportunities for development of microfinance sector in Uzbekistan" took place. During the meeting, presentation and discussion of results of research conducted by 'Tahlil' social research center (with support of UNDP) on "State of microfinance development in Uzbekistan" took place. A draft of the report on "Microfinance Development in Uzbekistan" and draft of the Resolution of Cabinet of Ministers of Uzbekistan on further development of microfinance were also presented. A Manual for MFIs and a draft decree were presented and discussed in the conference. In addition, an International Knowledge Sharing Workshop and two forums "How to build transparent microfinance sector?" and "What form of the reforms on microfinance is the most appropriate for Uzbekistan at present?" are scheduled in the future.

UNDP is undertaking projects such as Sustainable Income Generation project, support to policy reform, micro-credit development in Kashkadarya province, Uzbekistan Development Gateway, Statistical Project Initiative, and tax system reform.

Contact:
Uzbekistan Development Gateway
Center for Economic Research
Tel: 998 712 54-39-67/68/70
E-mail: gateway@cer.uz
Website: www.microfinance.uz; www.gateway.uz; www.cer.uz; www.cagateway.org; www.communityempowerment.net

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Venezuela
Venezuela is issuing a special publication on microcredit and increasing the amount of small loans to vulnerable groups, including indigenous communities. The State Industrial Bank has dedicated $65 million to financing microcredit in 2005. In addition, the country is promoting microfinance through the banking sector and mass media (visual and print). It is documenting the Year's experiences and events through the production of a document and video.

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Vietnam
Vietnam is participating in the Global Microentrepreneurship Awards Programme.

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Zambia
In Zambia, a number of activities are planned, many of them focusing on the development of the microfinance and rural banking sector. Further initiatives include the inclusion of microfinance in all development and poverty reduction programs and legal reforms aimed at facilitating the growth of the sector. The government and other stakeholders are working on regulation, policy, supervision, taxation, subsidies, and performance standards in the area of microfinance. A promotional campaign includes a microfinance week, a national microfinance summit, workshops, discussion programs on radio and television, and exhibitions.

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Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe's National Committee is made up of members from the central bank, nonprofit/microfinance networks/NGOs, and government. The Committee's projects include holding a media campaign through radio and television discussion programs and microfinance documentaries. The Committee will also organize nationwide road shows and a nationwide Microfinance Expo (to be held in November 2005).

Contact:
Chair: Ms Ethel Hlabangana, Ministry of Small and Medium Enterprises Development; The Secretary Zimbabwe National Committee
P.O. Box MP 1151
Mount Pleasant
Harare, Zimbabwe
Tel: 263 4 704953
Fax: 263 4 720359
Email: zamfi.info@utande.co.zw

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Important National Committee Documents

1. National Committees - a document summarizing the role and characteristics of a National Committee / Focal Point for the International Year of Microcredit

2. National Committees Sample Action Plan - specifically designed for those National Committees who have not yet established action plans

3. Communications Campaign - including guidelines for organizing a public awareness campaign for the Year at the country level

4. National Committees Update - detailing examples of events, upcoming activities and communications, and outreach strategies from various National Committees worldwide

5. Sample Press Release

6. Year of Microcredit Brochure - Learn more about Year of Microcredit activities

7. Made by Microentrepreneurs - Learn more about how you can purchase Year of Microcredit products!

8. Year of Microcredit Information Kit

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Important National Committee Documents (Spanish)

1. Comités Nacionales

2. Pautas para la organización de Campañas Comunicacionales

3. Actualización de los Comites Nacionales

4. Plan de Acción Tipo Para Los Comités Nacionales

5. Comunicado de Prensa Tipo para los Comités Nacionales

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Important National Committee Documents (French)

1. Comités Nationaux

2. Lignes de Conduite pour l'organisation d'une Campagne de Communication

3. Les Comités Nationaux – Mise à jour

4. Exemple De Plan d'Action Pour Les Comités Nationaux

5. Communiqué de Presse Témoin pour les Comités Nationaux

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Important National Committee Documents (Arabic)

1. National Committees

2. National Committees Sample Action Plan

3. Sample Press Release

4. Communications Campaign

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Mbanda

Mozambique
When Aid to Artisans (ATA) first met Mbanda (born Jose Rodrigues Fumo), he was carving under a tree. Originally working alone, Mbanda now employs four other artisans in his workshop. Read Mbanda's entire success story >>
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