Africa: The Microfinance Landscape
When
This event took place on 9 Jun 2010 from 6:30 pm until 8:00 pm.Details
While progress has been made in fighting poverty worldwide, the African continent is mired in poverty. It is estimated that some 50% of Africa’s population lives on less than $1 a day. Donors and NGOs have played an important role in developing microfinance in Africa with demonstrated success stories and innovative programs, ranging from savings to mobile banking. However, limited capital accumulation for/by MFIs has hindered more robust economic growth. Investors are increasingly playing a more important role in Africa’s microfinance sector. The speakers on this panel will discuss both challenges and opportunities in microfinance in Africa.
Speakers for this event include:
Participants
Donna Katzin is the founding Executive Director of Shared Interest, a social investment fund that raises and utilizes grant and loan capital for democratic and sustainable South African community economic development projects. Since its launch in 1994, the fund has benefited more than 1.8 million low-income black South Africans.
Mr. Crawford is Chief Executive Officer of MicroVest Capital Management. He has over 20 years experience with microfinance institutions and capital markets, and has worked extensively in Latin America and Africa, as well as in Asia. Before helping to found MicroVest Capital Management, Mr.
Ken is interim CEO for Opportunity International™s Network Services Organization. Ken has served with Opportunity in various roles for 20 years.
Henri Dommel joined UNCDF as the Director of the Inclusive Finance Unit in 2007. He is responsible for leading the Unit's strategy in promoting the access to financial services and the development of inclusive financial sectors in Least Developed Countries. In his position, Mr. Dommel helps develop UNCDF's strategy within Inclusive Finance.
J. Skyler Fernandes is the Chief Operating Officer and serves on the Board of Directors of SACCA. Prior to this role, he acted as the Vice President of Operations (2007-2009). As COO, Mr. Fernandes plays a key role in developing SACCA´s global initiatives, managing team operations, and facilitating trans-Atlantic partnerships.
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