The 9th Annual Assembly of Microfinance Stakeholders was organized by SHAMROCK. The annual assembly of the microfinance sector attracted a large number of microfinance experts, social entrepreneurs, regulatory institutions, valuable contributors, banking professionals, stakeholders and other prominent personalities in the social developmental sector.

Speakers at the ‘Microfinance Forum 2015’ stressed the need for a cohesive effort to move from regulations to actions over microfinance. They urged the microfinance sector to generate fresh opportunities and lead the growth for micro enterprises.

Khushhali Microfinance Bank President, Ghalib Nishtar highlighted that Pakistan’s policy and regulatory framework helped in the growth of the industry. He reiterated the need for focus on MSME as investors have come to support this segment; however the funding challenge continues to overshadow the industry. He said, “The microfinance institutions should lead the growth into the unbanked and small business market segments, supporting the national agenda for job creation.”

The general consensus of panelists was to address the critical issue of reaching out to the poorest of the poor, measuring social performance indicators and reducing poverty.

The well-attended conference was sponsored by Khushhali Microfinance Bank, Waseela Bank Limited, Meezan Bank and Tameer Microfinance Bank, and supported by the Pakistan Microfinance Network, with Pakistan Observer as the Media Partner.