Micro-credit and Women Empowerment in Malawi and Zambia

This book assesses whether or not microcredit programs of FINCA International are empowering women clients and their households in Malawi and Zambia. The study set out to determine if any major changes, partial changes or no changes have occurred on women clients and their households, businesses and communities, because of clients' participation in FINCA program. Study participants were women clients under the Village Bank and Loan Officers. This book argues that the FINCA microcredit program has enabled women clients attain some important levels of empowerment, and improve their wellbeing. The program has also benefited clients' households, businesses, and communities. However, some clients have not benefited much from this program. It also argues that the FINCA program has not enabled women clients attain other levels of empowerment, due, in part, to its shortcomings, and challenges it is facing. It further contends that differing program impacts exist among clients, households and businesses; but beneficiary communities have benefited similarly. It also unravels the workings of the current stiff competition and scramble for clients among MFIs in Malawi and Zambia.