Across Asia there is a strong common need to build the capacity of microfinance actors to enable them to manage efficiently their traditional business of financial service provision.The actors needs are very diverse but some commonalities do specifically in capacity building needs of the sector. These commonalities include the main operating aspects of Microfinance (such as loan appraisal, accounting, portfolio management, funds mobilization, controlling costs and delinquency, management information systems, etc.).
The Asia Microfinance Forum was a showcase of the relevant microfinance models from our most experienced BWTP members and others, and raised great interest among the participants. The BWTP network believes one of its major roles is to further disseminate best practices models with in the region using as often as possible the experience of its membership. Through this, it expects to both improve the capacity of ‘younger’ members in the network but also to build the capacity in countries or areas where microfinance practice and industry is less developed.
Further to this, the microfinance training in post-disaster situations project, developed in conjunction with the BWTP, has developed a strong set of materials in this specialist area which has attracted demand for further rolling out.
Objectives:
Activities
Dissemination of best practices:
This activity builds on the previous work completed by the BWTP network on “Capacity Building for Microfinance Institutions for Post-Tsunami Reconstruction”. The project has produced a package of high quality, multi-language training manuals and resources on the subject of “Microfinance and Disaster Management”. The BWTP wishes to continue this important theme by continuing to raise the awareness of MFI managers on the subject, and facilitate training on the subject, and continue to the roll-out the training material. The BWTP is proposing to deliver short sessions to create awareness of MFI managers and promote the curriculum as a training option for microfinance providers.
Through the technical assistance program the BWTP Network, expects to both improve the 'younger' members in the network, and also to build capacity in countries or areas where microfinance practice and industry is less developed. The BWTP network will identify the institutions which need a more intense, direct or long-term help to manage their organization. The Network will identify the most appropriate experienced institution to meet the 'younger' organizations technical assistance needs. To fulfil the training requirements the BWTP will then provide a tailored course to suit both of the institutions involved. It is expected that the technical assistance will be provided by BWTP's members or exceptionally from other relevant institutions. In the future, it is required that the organizations that received technical assistance training will be able to provided further training not only within their own institution but to other organizations in their area or country.