Kashf Foundation (Pakistan)
«Agriculture and the agrarian economy are central to food security and the well-being of rural households. Women play a vital role in maintaining agricultural productivity, but their contributions often remain invisible and underestimated.»
— Roshaneh Zafar, Founder and CEO
In Pakistani villages, where 70% of agricultural workers are women, livestock farming is much more than a commercial activity: it is a means of subsistence. Yet, much of their work remains unpaid and unrecognized.
Through its Kashf Maweshi Karza (KMWK) program, the Kashf Foundation has sought to change this reality by offering women livestock farmers an integrated support package. This program combines flexible loans tailored to livestock cycles, livestock insurance, health coverage, and technical training in livestock farming. The farmers learn how to sell unproductive animals in a timely manner, prevent genetic diseases, and ensure proper nutrition for their herds. Rather than viewing women solely as borrowers, Kashf recognizes them as entrepreneurs capable of managing and expanding productive businesses.
Since its launch in 2017, the program has disbursed 241,829 loans, totaling 23.7 billion Pakistani rupees (70 million euros), with a customer satisfaction rate of 95%, with women reporting renewed confidence and economic stability.
When Mumtaz Baji began working with Kashf, she owned only two animals. Through successive loans and training sessions, she learned to improve herd management, prevent diseases, and make informed business decisions. Today, she owns twenty animals, generates a stable income from dairy production, and has been able to provide better opportunities for her family.
«I am truly grateful to the Kashf Foundation for the livestock loan and training, which have helped me to better care for my animals and grow my business. Today, I have a stable income, I can confidently support my family and plan for the future.»
— Mumtaz Baji
Mikra (Bosnia and Herzegovina)
«Empowering women in agriculture is not a one-day initiative. It is a fundamental part of our mission. Supporting women farmers means creating a long-term social and economic impact.»
— Belma Halimić, Chief Financial Officer of Mikra
Mikra has developed a large online community called "« Women in Agriculture »"bringing together nearly 20,000 members. This platform allows women farmers to receive agricultural advice, exchange best practices and directly access agronomists and agricultural experts for personalized professional support.
The organization also offers educational programs specifically designed for women in the agricultural sector, focusing on modern agricultural technologies, productivity improvement, and access to financing opportunities and government mechanisms for agricultural business development.
Mikra is currently preparing a large-scale «Women in Agriculture» program aimed at strengthening financial inclusion, education, mentoring and sustainable economic empowerment of women farmers and rural entrepreneurs.
With his sister, Jasminka Hatibović They have dedicated themselves to beekeeping for over two decades. Their commitment to quality led to international recognition when they received a gold medal at the Apimondia Congress in Montpellier. Their success demonstrates that excellence depends not on the scale of the operation, but on passion, expertise, and perseverance.
«"It wasn't about large-scale production. It was about dedication, consistency, and never compromising on quality."»
— Jasminka Hatibović
MicroLoan Foundation (Malawi)
«"It is central to our mission to celebrate women who improve their lives, particularly through agriculture. Proper customer selection, training, and relationship management can be more effective in reducing default rates than excessive reliance on guarantees."»
— Davison Rakasi, General manager
In Malawi, agriculture supports millions of households. Yet, women farmers are frequently excluded from formal credit due to a lack of collateral.
MicroLoan Foundation (MLF) This challenge was addressed through a model based on solidarity and trust. Women organize themselves into groups that offer mutual support and shared responsibility. Financial literacy training accompanies the loan process, ensuring that clients understand not only their obligations but also their opportunities.
MLF has also embraced digital innovation. Today, 98% of reimbursements are processed digitally via USSD platforms, increasing convenience and reducing security risks.
It is important to note that the institution chose not to avoid agriculture despite climate-related uncertainties. On the contrary, it adapted its methodologies to include women engaged in agricultural activities: half of MLF's portfolio is now in agriculture.
Mary Michael, A divorced mother of five, Mary obtained her first loan of €50 after financial literacy training and transitioned from trading timber to selling corn. Her thriving business is now run with her son and two employees. Her achievements include building a shop, buying land for rental properties, and improving her own home, all while providing for the education of her children and an orphan. Now able to access loans of up to €750, Mary encourages other women to join credit unions.
OXUS (Tajikistan)
«Women are often the most active and disciplined customers. Our goal is to empower them not only as borrowers, but as decision-makers within their families and communities.»
— Vatansho Vatanshoev, General manager
In rural Tajikistan, women continue to face obstacles that go beyond financing. Social norms, limited access to information, and reduced participation in decision-making processes can limit economic opportunities.
Through its services, OXUS Tajikistan OXUS seeks to address these challenges holistically. The institution combines financial products with financial education initiatives and practical training designed to empower women. By expanding access to savings products and promoting women's participation in economic life, OXUS helps build resilience at the household and community levels. Clients consistently demonstrate their responsibility and commitment.
Zinnatoy Ruzikhochaevna Urmonova She has been collaborating with OXUS since 2012, starting with a loan of 4,000 TJS (€375) to expand her greenhouse tomato crops. Today, she has accessed loans of up to 10,000 TJS (€935). Through accurate market analysis and high-yield hybrid seeds, she has established a sustainable and profitable business that consistently meets local demand. Her success has allowed her to renovate her home, purchase a vehicle, and significantly improve her family's living conditions.