In 2024, 83% of all new MicroLoan clients were living below the global poverty line of $2.50 per day, with nearly half in extreme poverty. By offering tailored financial solutions and business training, we help women build sustainable livelihoods. After just one year with MicroLoan Foundation, 17% of clients moved out of extreme poverty, and all clients were able to start saving—critical steps toward long-term financial security.
Women smallholder farmers produce 60-80% of food in their communities but often lack access to financial tools. With 90% of our clients working in agriculture, we support income diversification and savings to promote resilience. As a result, food security among MicroLoan-supported families increased from 87% to 92% in 2024, ensuring more households have reliable access to nutritious meals.
Financial empowerment leads to better health outcomes. 49% of clients reported increased access to healthcare and 98% reported an improvement in quality of life, mainly as a result of being able to provide for their children. This positively impacted 659,051 children and vulnerable adults, enabling them to afford food, medical care, and better living conditions.
Education is key to breaking the cycle of poverty. More than 158,000 women received financial literacy and business training in 2024, with 97% improving their budgeting skills. This translated to increased household income, with 65% of clients investing more in their children’s education. In Malawi, 77% of our clients can now send all their female children to school, ensuring greater opportunities for the next generation.
Economic empowerment strengthens women’s rights and decision-making power. 100% of our clients are women, and 9 out of 10 are accessing financial services for the first time. After joining MicroLoan, 98% reported increased self-confidence, and 83% gained more influence over household financial decisions, which are crucial steps toward gender equality.
As a leading microfinance institution in Malawi, Zambia, and Zimbabwe, we are committed to fostering economic opportunities. In 2024, we disbursed £16.8 million ($21 million) in loans, enabling women to grow their businesses by an average of 382%. Additionally, 8% of our clients now employ others, creating jobs and strengthening local economies.
With many clients working in agriculture, climate resilience is vital. In 2024, 100% of MicroLoan clients had savings, providing a financial safety net against climate-related crises. Additionally, 97% of clients reported feeling better prepared for emergencies. Additionally, 18% of clients in Malawi invested in stronger housing materials to withstand extreme weather conditions.
Sustainable farming is essential for both environmental and economic resilience. MicroLoan Foundation launched an Environmental and Social Loan in 2024 to help farmers manage environmental risks while protecting their land. We also work with conservation organisations to provide training on sustainable practices, helping women move away from harmful environmental activities.
Collaboration is key to driving lasting impact. MicroLoan Foundation partners with organisations worldwide to amplify our mission and expand our reach. By working together, we can continue to empower women, strengthen communities, and contribute to a more equitable and sustainable future.
Published on: 11/04/2025
