Technical Assistance: Development of MLF Zambia's Strategic Plan

© Peter CATON

THE ORGANIZATION AND THE FOUNDATION

As part of the African Facility, MLF Zambia received a €49,000 grant from the French Development Agency to implement 10 technical assistance missions in various areas (risk management, digitalization, staff training, etc.), including the development of a new business plan. The Foundation also granted a loan to MLF Zambia in 2020 for a total amount of €250,000.

THE CONTEXT OF THE MISSION

In a context of strong business growth, MLF Zambia sought outside expertise and expert support to position itself more clearly in the market and strengthen its competitiveness. The institution thus benefited from the support of a local technical assistance provider to develop a new five-year strategic plan (2021-2025), an action plan, and financial projections.

THE RESULTS

Thanks to this mission, MLF Zambia was able to better understand the local microfinance sector and precisely define its medium-term objectives and growth projections. The institution is now equipped to face competition, prioritize its actions, and make projections. The development of the business plan also enabled MLF Zambia to more clearly communicate its organizational objectives to its staff and potential new investors.

THE PERSPECTIVES

MLF Zambia is targeting significant business growth, with the goal of serving 80,000 active clients within five years. The institution also aims to strengthen its operational efficiency through refined lending methodologies and smart technology, as well as increase staff motivation, develop products dedicated to financing agricultural activities, and build customer loyalty, all with the ultimate goal of improving women's living conditions.

This article was published in "Our technical assistance system", accessible here