New Field Partner: UGAFODE brings tailored loan products to Ugandan borrowers

Focused on providing a range of innovative loan products to rural clients in the western and central regions of the country, UGAFODE will use Kiva loans to increase household incomes and promote social and holistic transformation for its borrowers.

Adapting to the needs of its clients, UGAFODE has tailored loans to help entrepreneurs finance their housing, businesses, agriculture, and even mortgages through flexible loans. Additionally, the organization promotes sustainable business practices by encouraging green loans.

To better understand the people it serves, UGAFODE has established nine branches throughout rural and suburban communities. As of fall 2011, it had 5,300 active borrowers benefiting from loans, social services and savings programs -- including hard-working 22-year-old Yudah (pictured below).

One of UGAFODE's first Kiva borrowers, Yudah will use his $625 loan to boost his business as a coffee trader and protect his crop during the rainy season. He dreams of sending his children to good schools and someday building houses that he can rent to others for extra income.

Kiva is thrilled to join Opportunity International, Oiko Credit, and Habitat for Humanity Uganda in helping UGAFODE develop its services. The flexible, risk-tolerant capital provided by Kiva lenders will enable the organization to reach far more low-income clients and create more loan products tailored to the specific needs of these communities.

For more information on UGAFODE, check out its Field Partner profile. Or lend to one of UGAFODE's borrowers today!

Send any questions or comments about UGAFODE or Kiva's involvement to blog@kiva.org.

photo courtesy of Brookesb