DID - Développement international Desjardins

Published purpose

This project contributes to improving the economic situation of the most disadvantaged populations in Benin, especially women. This portion of the project aims to provide a response to the coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19). With the support of Canada, Développement international Desjardins supports the consolidation, professionalization and development of the microfinance sector, including strengthening the institutional capacities of the entities responsible for its governance. Project activities include: (1) supporting the National Agency for the Supervision of Decentralized Financial Systems in the implementation of the microfinance sector consolidation strategy; (2) developing a training program and tools focused on financial and credit management for the 10 decentralized financial systems supported by the project (90% of the market); (3) establishing a financial centre for entrepreneurs, subject to the positive conclusions of a feasibility study (300 entrepreneurs would use this centre); (4) offering demand-driven financial products or services (three financial products developed, including two for women); and (5) educating populations on basic financial concepts (900 training courses would be given to a total of 45,000 people).