1.  “When we have money, they call us by our names, not by our disabilities” Lizzie Longshaw, quoted in Lewis (2004).

2. P3001 IMFSL PROJECT Inclusive Microfinance & Sustainable Livelihood Pilot Project for Persons with Disabilities(PwDs) in Malawi. Presentation By Patric Ulaya on 6 Oct. 2014

3.  In 2010 FEDOMA with assistance from Gorta of Ireland rolled out a microfinance project in Machinga district.  The purpose of empowering persons with disabilities (PwDs) economically by offering microcredits.  Initiative succeeding in reference to over 90% repayment rate.

4.  However a VSL approach was considered more effective to PwDs in need of micro- entrepreneurship.  PwDs falling in the category of small to medium entrepreneurship were opted for a link up program with existing microfinance firms.

5.  The project targets PwDs, caregivers and the rest of community. Inclusive approach.  Aims at promoting savings culture amongst PwDs and overcoming barriers that hinders full participation of PwDs in microfinance programs.  Implementing partners are CUMO and OBM in rural and urban models respectively.  IMFSL approach is modeled on NUDIPU-AMFIL inclusive microfinance strategy.

6.  As of end of August 2014 CUMO has registered 103 beneficiaries in Salima district.  OBM has registered 82 beneficiaries in Blantyre urban district.  PwDs have established small businesses that are promoting their welfare through the proceeds they are getting from their businesses.

7.  Harrison Samvetsa, physically disabled, of Tsogololathu group SAM 288 in Salima reports that he has now accumulated MK4000.00(around$8) in savings within 6 months period.  Alinafe Mustafa, physically disabled, of Thombodzi SAM 277 group in Salima says that she now has MK15000.00(around $30) in her savings thanks to the VSL program

8. Members of CUMO’s SAM 278, Tsogololanga group in Salima posing for a group photograph with Patric Ulaya of IMFSL project team. The group has 4 members with physical disabilities and 2 parents of PwDs. Harrison Samvetsa in white shirt.

9.  Overwhelming demand for microfinance services by PwDs in the piloted districts resulting in temporarily overstretching the capacities of the mfis involved.  Most microfinance institutions in Malawi are unwilling to offer start up loans to Pads.(not necessarily a challenge of the project but rather of the microfinance sector)

12.  VSL initiative, embedded in CBR program, provides financial muscle crucial to other CBR matrix components.  A full scale VSL project is key to uplifting economic status’ of PwDs mainly in rural areas, where majority of PwDs in Malawi resides.  Experience gained through the Gorta project as well as the IMFSL project, can assist FEDOMA to successfully launch a VSL project

13.  THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!