Microfinance & Empowerment Programs In Gulu

“Microcredit must not replace the role of the state in providing basic services and traditional forms of aid, which can further help to alleviate gaps in food security, health and education, but a microcredit loan may be the difference between hunger and the ability to feed one’s self.”  KS

To date WGEF has given out over 4500 loans, and this quarter we gave out 277 new loans to 43 borrowing groups. It is planting season, so many of our loans were for agro projects, which is helping to increase food security at the household and community level.

Our traditional businesses include: tailoring, construction, food service, restuarants, poultry, shops, and many other endeavors. The spirals of this are immeasureable; our clients are hiring employees, their families are experiencing increased food security, more consistent school attendance, and a brighter future.

Our average loan size last quarter was $53.00 usd; while this seems like a small amount, it can be powerful, creating opportunities. Before the loan is disbursed to the borroing group, the participants attend several business trainings, creating a viable business plan, savings plan, and electing leadership.

Recently there was a fire in the Gulu market. Eleven of our clients lost their businesses but thankfully no one was hurt. We are restructuring their loans and have assigned a peer counselor to assist.

Along with loan dibursements, WGEF is offering it's literacy training again, with 104 women participating this year at two levels, twice weekly.

I hope are you inspired, we cannot provide opporutnities without support and funding. Thank you for your commitment to women's empowerment.

Links:

• http://www.wgefund.org