IFAD Research Series 94: Engaging women in microfinance - a qualitative study of the Programme de Microfinance Rural in Mali

This paper outlines the results of a study on the Programme de Microfinance Rural in Mali. It explores the impacts on agency and use of resources in households, with a focus on the role of gender in addressing these issues.

The PMR expanded access to loans through community-based credit groups and overcame negative community experiences with previous microfinance programmes. In many cases, it led to significant economic benefits for women but others struggled with the loan repayment terms.

The PMR built on similar community credit groups, enabling them to expand their efficacy and ability to benefit the community more broadly. Women were most often the target loan recipients and frequently had a strong voice in the PMR groups.