The establishment and development of small businesses like these are key for local economic development, and are particularly empowering for women.

To help support inclusive growth, AKDN microfinance activities in Burkina Faso, and West Africa generally, are concentrated in rural areas.  AKDN help support craftsmen, farmers and small businesses with the aim of growing businesses and creating jobs.

Since 2006 AKDN has been providing microfinance support to people in Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire and Mali.  AKDN lends to over 16,000 borrowers in Burkina Faso.  90% are in rural areas and 40% are women.

[More on microfinance]