Posts Tagged ‘Niger’

Microfinance Focus, Sept.2, 2009: UNDP's economic recovery assistance programme in conflict-ridden Niger has benefitted about 1,200 women and girls, said a statement. The region suffers from both political instability and inequality between men and women. Many of the targeted women are disenfranchised, widowed, displaced or injured. Some have been the victims of rape. These women are for the first time being involved in productive activities. Several ... Full story

By Naagesh, N. Microfinance Focus, August 19, 2009: The International Finance Corporation (IFC), the World Bank's private sector arm, announced on Wednesday that it committed $1.8 billion worth of new investments across 30 countries in Africa in the fiscal year ended June, as it rapidly increased activities to help microfinance and other financial advisory services or guarantees in Africa. IFC’s investments represented a 32% increase over the $1.4 billion in commitments recorded a year earlier. IFC also delivered $26.1 million worth of advisory services, up from $18.6 million a year ago, as it expanded activities to have more impact in countries affected by conflict and where the private sector is at the very early stages of development. Full story

Microfinance Focus, Aug. 13, 2009: IFC, a member of the World Bank Group, will increase private sector investment and advisory services, especially for projects on financial inclusion or microfinance in Togo and Côte d’Ivoire. “Africa’s development needs combined with its spirit of enterprise reinforce IFC’s strong commitment to the continent,” said Thierry Tanoh, IFC Vice President for Sub-Saharan Africa. “IFC has expanded its role in Africa during the financial crisis and intends to continue to do so.” Tanoh and Director for West and Central Africa Yolande Duhem, in their second visit to these countries in less than a year, highlighted IFC’s growing regional ties with Lome-based Ecobank. During the fiscal year ending in June 2009, IFC increased its investment in Sub-Saharan Africa to $1.8 billion reaching 30 countries, up from $1.4 billion in 25 countries the previous year. IFC Advisory Services in Africa increased by 35 percent to $38 million and doubled its work in conflict-affected countries, said a statement from IFC. Full story