Catalyst for Change: Empowering Women Through SACCO Microfinance Training Course

Introduction

The strategic empowerment of women is a critical driver of economic growth and community development. For Savings and Credit Cooperative Organizations (SACCOs), microfinance is a powerful tool to not only provide financial access but also to dismantle systemic barriers that often limit women's full economic participation. By designing and implementing tailored financial products and support services, SACCOs can become key catalysts for change, helping women build sustainable livelihoods, gain financial independence, and increase their voice within their families and communities. This approach moves beyond simple lending to create a holistic ecosystem of financial inclusion that recognizes the unique challenges and opportunities faced by women.

This five-day training course is designed to equip SACCO professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to develop and manage microfinance programs that genuinely empower women. We will explore best practices in product design, financial literacy training, and community engagement, all tailored to meet the specific needs of female entrepreneurs and members. By the end of this course, you will understand how to transform your SACCO into a champion of gender equality, driving both social impact and robust financial performance.

Duration 5 days

Target Audience This course is for all SACCO staff involved in microfinance, including loan officers, community outreach coordinators, product development teams, senior management, and board members.

Objectives

  • To understand the unique financial challenges and opportunities for women.
  • To identify the business case for focusing on women's microfinance.
  • To learn how to design gender-sensitive microfinance products.
  • To master the principles of effective financial literacy training for women.
  • To understand how to measure the social impact of women's microfinance programs.
  • To learn best practices for community outreach and member engagement.
  • To understand how to build and maintain trust with women members.
  • To develop a framework for a SACCO-wide women's empowerment strategy.
  • To analyze case studies of successful women's microfinance initiatives.
  • To create a practical action plan for launching or enhancing a women-focused microfinance program at your SACCO.

Course Modules

Module 1: The Case for Women's Microfinance

  • The socio-economic role of women in the community.
  • The barriers women face in accessing traditional financial services.
  • The evidence that women are a better credit risk.
  • The multiplier effect of investing in women on families and communities.
  • How empowering women contributes to a SACCO's growth and stability.

Module 2: Product Design for Women

  • How to design loan products that meet women's specific needs.
  • The importance of flexible repayment schedules.
  • Creating savings products tailored to women's financial goals.
  • The role of group lending models in a cultural context.
  • Developing non-financial services like business mentorship and networking.

Module 3: Financial Literacy and Training

  • How to conduct financial literacy training sessions that are engaging and effective for women.
  • The importance of a culturally sensitive and respectful approach.
  • Topics to cover, including budgeting, saving, and managing credit.
  • The use of peer-to-peer learning and community groups.
  • The role of technology in delivering financial education.

Module 4: Risk Management and Trust Building

  • How to mitigate risks in lending to women entrepreneurs.
  • The importance of building trust and long-term relationships.
  • The role of transparent communication and clear policies.
  • How to handle late payments with a supportive approach.
  • Protecting member data and ensuring privacy.

Module 5: Measuring Social Impact

  • The importance of measuring the non-financial outcomes of your programs.
  • Key indicators of women's empowerment (e.g., decision-making power, confidence).
  • The process of collecting and analyzing qualitative and quantitative data.
  • Creating a social impact report for members and stakeholders.
  • The benefits of a commitment to continuous learning and improvement.

Module 6: Community Outreach and Engagement

  • How to identify and partner with community leaders and women's groups.
  • The importance of grassroots outreach and building a strong local presence.
  • Hosting workshops and events that are convenient and accessible for women.
  • The role of testimonials and success stories in marketing your programs.
  • Creating a feedback loop with members to continuously improve services.

Module 7: Technology in Women's Microfinance

  • The role of mobile banking and digital wallets.
  • Using technology to streamline loan applications and disbursements.
  • How to use data analytics to better understand women's needs.
  • The importance of user-friendly interfaces and clear instructions.
  • The role of technology in delivering remote training and support.

Module 8: Gender-Sensitive Policies and Governance

  • The importance of gender diversity on the SACCO board and in management.
  • Developing internal policies that support female staff.
  • The role of leadership in championing women's empowerment.
  • The importance of a clear and transparent governance structure.
  • How to ensure that all policies are inclusive and equitable.

Module 9: Case Studies and Best Practices

  • An analysis of successful women's microfinance programs from other financial institutions.
  • What challenges they faced and how they overcame them.
  • Examining different business models for women's empowerment.
  • The role of partnerships with NGOs and other development organizations.
  • How to adapt global best practices to your local context.

CERTIFICATION

  • Upon successful completion of this training, participants will be issued with Macskills Training and Development Institute Certificate

TRAINING VENUE

  • Training will be held at Macskills Training Centre. We also tailor make the training upon request at different locations across the world.

AIRPORT PICK UP AND ACCOMMODATION

  • Airport Pick Up is provided by the institute. Accommodation is arranged upon request

TERMS OF PAYMENT

Payment should be made to Macskills Development Institute bank account before the start of the training and receipts sent to info@macskillsdevelopment.com

For More Details call: +254-114-087-180

 

Catalyst For Change: Empowering Women Through Sacco Microfinance Training Course in Greece
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