National Microfinance Strategies

June, 2008     Eric Duflos and Jasmina Glisovic-Mezieres

An increasing number of countries are developing national microfinance strategies, bringing the topic to the forefront of national development priorities. Over 30 countries, most in Africa, now have such strategies. This trend appears to be fueled by microfinance’s heightened visibility and new development modalities that favor sector-wide approaches and policy work.

After reviewing 29 national microfinance strategy/policy documents, CGAP identified common elements, early benefits, and challenges. While the jury is still out on whether national microfinance strategies contribute to expanding poor people’s access to finance, this Brief offers suggestions on how donors can avoid some pitfalls when developing these strategies.

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