Microfinance Systems - Designing Quality Financial Services for the Poor

Graham A. N. Wright's 'Microfinance Systems - Designing Quality Financial Services for the Poor' emerged from repeated requests by practitioners and donor agencies for a comprehensive guide. Drawing on his thirteen years of field experience in Bangladesh, the Philippines, and East Africa, along with a thorough review of the growing microfinance literature, Wright presents a three-part examination of the field. The first section explores critical issues, such as the true potential of microfinance to reduce poverty and empower women, the role of savings for clients and institutions, strategies for recruiting and retaining quality clients, and the challenges of replicating successful models.

The book's second section serves as a practical manual, offering clear, concrete examples for designing microfinance systems that effectively serve the poor. The final section presents two detailed case studies that illustrate the action research process in two contrasting environments: the densely populated rural areas of Bangladesh and the remote mountain regions of the Philippines. Throughout the book, Wright offers experienced and pragmatic recommendations for the many problems facing the sector. While advocating for microfinance's power to alleviate poverty, he provides a stimulating and invaluable tour of the issues, making this book an essential read for anyone seriously engaged in the field.