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.
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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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