For over two decades, MicroLoan Foundation has championed women entrepreneurs in sub-Saharan Africa, delivering financial literacy training, small business loans, and mentoring. We have seen firsthand the impact that our work has made across Malawi, Zambia and Zimbabwe. And now, thanks to you, those ripples of hope are reaching South Africa.
Since 2002, MicroLoan Foundation has delivered microfinance services designed specifically for rural women. Our model, which combines small loans with financial education and mentoring, has empowered over 512,000 women to launch and grow small businesses.
Women use their loans to start poultry farms, tailoring businesses, or market stalls, small enterprises that become pillars of local economies.
Our model is tried, tested and trusted by the women we work with. It’s more than just finance, it’s about equipping women with the knowledge and confidence to build sustainable businesses.
We support women in groups, creating a network of accountability and encouragement. Our approach integrates financial literacy, business training, mentoring, and access to small loans. We provide flexibility, so that loan terms reflect the realities of women’s lives, helping them to withstand economic or climate shocks.
Our modelThanks to your incredible belief in our mission, we’ve taken the first steps to expand into South Africa, where too many women still lack access to the tools and knowledge needed to build stable livelihoods.
We’re thrilled to announce the recruitment of our first dedicated Loan & Training Officers in South Africa. These passionate pioneers are already in the field, meeting women, listening to their dreams, and introducing MicroLoan’s trusted model. Their efforts are laying the groundwork for a ripple effect of transformation.
Over the coming weeks, traditional leaders will be introducing MicroLoan to local women. This community-led approach ensures our programmes are rooted in trust, understanding, and relevance.
Very soon, women in South Africa will take their first steps toward launching microenterprises with MicroLoan Foundation, just like thousands of women in Malawi, Zambia, and Zimbabwe have done.
As we expand into South Africa, we invite you to be part of something powerful. Just $21 pays for a financial literacy session for one woman, equipping her with the knowledge and confidence to take her first step out of poverty.
Photography: Peter Caton
Published on: 11/07/2025
