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SearchINTERVIEW: 8 days study tour in Uganda, the reality of fair finance
24-03-2010
Earlier this month, 12 Oikocredit volunteers, investors and staff from around the world gathered in Uganda to get up close and personal with fair financing. Maria Sandell, a communications officer from the Church of Sweden, joined the trip and spoke with us about her time in Uganda. The Church of Sweden is a strategic partner of Oikocredit and a direct member, with approximately € 12 million invested in Oikocredit.
Why did you decide to go on the Uganda Study Tour?
My employer, Church of Sweden, suggested that I, or one of my fellow workers at the Department of Communication, should participate. At our office the project officer of microfinance
is working closely with Oikocredit. But because we wish to focus more on communicating about Oikocredit than we have done so far, we felt it would be a good idea one of the communication officers also has a more thourough knowledge of what Oikocredit is and does. What then could be more suitable than to participate in a Study Tour?
Has your perspective on microfinance changed?
Before the Study Tour I had seen and experienced microfinance only as a part of integrated development work and financed with donations. I doubted whether commercial microfinance
was really a good idea, or at least I suspected that it was second best.
What was the most important thing you learned?
What I really appreciated during the Study Tour was the chance to spend time with Oikocredit staff, meet several different microfinance institutions and their staff, and of course meet a lot of clients. It was so worthwhile to be able to ask questions, get answers and to discuss problems, like high rates, overindebtness, as well as amazing achievements and empowerment. I would say the most important thing is that I now feel I have a comprehensive picture of microfinance, and of Oikocredit.
Do you think a microloan equals empowerment? Isn't it easier to donate money?
Microloans often leads to empowerment, and is usually better for the client than donations, but I believe it should always be combined with advise and appropriate training. There are several areas where I believe it is not possible - yet - to use commercial microfinance. Awareness-building activities, humanitarian aid and advocay work, for example. A major advantage of commercial microfinance compared to donations is of course the size of the funds.
Now that you're back in Sweden, has the tour prompted any activities?
I am planning for new and more thourough information on microfinance on are website, to our voluntary workers and in our magazine to the donors.
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