CENTRE FOR SELF-HELP DEVELOPMENT

Institute of micro-finance and cooperative development.

Fourth National Microfinance Summit Concludes with Decisive Action Plan

With the theme “Prudent Microfinance, Prosperous Members”, the 4th National Microfinance Members' Summit, Nepal concluded with the issuance of a comprehensive 12-point declaration, outlining strategic initiatives to propel the microfinance sector forward. The two day event, coordinated by CSD was held from February 17 to 18, 2024 at Kathmandu.

The summit witnessed the participation of around 900 microfinance and cooperative employees, women entrepreneurs, client members and other stakeholders. The summit featured six thematic sessions, convening microfinance experts, economists, policymakers, regulatory authorities, microfinance advocates, promoters, managers, staff, and client members. The sessions delved into the current status of microfinance in Nepal, its challenges, and potential solutions, along with the experiences of MFIs’ client members regarding MFIs’ achievements and challenges, MFIs’ contribution in entrepreneurship and job creation.

Dr. Ram Sharan Mahat, the Minister of Finance, inaugurated the programe, expressing his belief in the profound impact of microfinance on expanding financial access across the nation, particularly benefiting the underprivileged women and rural community. Mr. Shankar Man Shrestha, Chairman of the steering committee reflected on the pivotal role of microfinance services in uplifting economic and social status of underprivileged women. He mentioned that microfinance programs have emerged as an effective tools in combating poverty and unemployment.

During the closing ceremony, outstanding microfinance members and institutions were honored with Entrepreneurship Development Awards. Jeevan Bikas Laghubitta Bittiya Sanstha Limited was awarded with cash prize of Rs.100,000 and a certificate for its outstanding contribution to institutional entrepreneurship development, bestowed annually by CSD. Ms. Kamalpati Kumari Dagaura, a member of Kisan Multi-Purpose Cooperative; Ms. Nasima Khatun, a member of Jeevan Bikas Laghubitta and Ms. Menaka Shrestha, a member of Chhimek Laghubitta were recognized as the best entrepreneurs and received a cash prize of Rs. 25,000 with certificate.  Several clubs, employees, and organisations promoting the 3 Zero Clubs were also honoured. Special recognition was bestowed upon organizations and employees demonstrating excellence in the 'Ghargharma Uddhyamshilta Bikas' campaign, who contributed to the upliftment of underprivileged communities, and the best center chief.

The summit concluded with the unanimous adoption of a 12-point declaration based on the discussions and views presented with focus on expanding entrepenuership in every poor household and reduce poverty to zero.

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