Benefits SMEs derive from MFIs

Abstract

The back bone of every economy is the private informal sector (SMEs) and most employment opportunities in Zambia largely focus on small and medium scale enterprises. Hence the contributions the sector makes to economic growth and development through job creation and can't be overemphasized. However, SMEs were almost dismissed form the formal financial sector in Zambia. The small and medium scale enterprises face difficulties in accessing the financial opportunities, enterprise development skills, face unfavourable regulatory bottlenecks and inappropriate market structures and these therefore, poses serious restriction to their growth and development in the economy. When microfinance was properly harnessed, could make significant contributions to the economic growth and development because it promotes higher investments leading to economic empowerment which in turn promotes confidence, self-esteem, and build capabilities, particularly for the vulnerable majority. In other words, it creates access to productive capital for the poor and subsequently reduces poverty.