Case study: Jamii Bora

Keywords

microfinance, financial inclusion, underserved communities

Abstract

The Story:

Jamii Bora is Kenya's largest microfinance institution and works to help the poor through low-cost loans that enable them to save money and develop small businesses.

The Challenge:

Jamii Bora wanted to increase the numbers of members. The organisation started in 1999 with 50 members who were former street beggars, and by late 2008 the membership had grown to more than 180,000. It wanted to reach 500,000 people with a primary focus on growth into remote or underserved areas such as slums. At the same time, Jamii Bora also wanted to expand its product offering without neglecting its core microfinance operation.

Original Publication Citation

Jones Christensen, L. & Thomas, J. (2009). Jamii Bora: Microfinance and sustainable housing. (Teaching note also available). Top-five finalist, Oikos/Ashoka Social Entrepreneurship Award. Kenan-Flagler Business School.

Document Type

Other

Publication Date

2010

Publisher

Kenan-Flagler Business School

Language

English

College

Marriott School of Business

Department

Marketing

University Standing at Time of Publication

Full Professor

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