Rafode is a microfinance organization based in Kisumu, Kenya that provides services across western Kenya, including highly rural areas that other organizations cannot serve due to logistical challenges. Rafode uses a rigorous client assessment process and group lending model, where over 70% of its clients are women who apply for loans in groups to reduce default risk. Loan officers conduct business training for clients receiving loans in topics like entrepreneurship and accounting to help them succeed.

1. Slideshow of Rafode in Action

2. Rafode’s office is in Kisumu, Kenya We provide services across western Kenya

3. We work in highly rural areas, serving clients that other microfinances cannot due to the inherent logistical challenges

4. Client outreach is a central component to Rafode’s microfinance program

5. Our loan officers work with community leaders to recruit clients who can benefit from Rafode’s microfinance program

6. Rafode’s clients must undergo a rigorous assessment process before loans are disbursed

7. Co-founder Chris (right) and loan officer Zak (middle) interview a client to asses his business

8. Client details are carefully documented

9. Over 70% of Rafode’s clients are women

10. Clients apply for loans in groups; peer pressure helps to insure repayment and reduces default risk

11. Funding decisions are made by Rafode’s internal Credit Committee. Loan officers and management meet to decide which clients to fund based on assessments conducted in the field

12. Rafode’s loan officers conduct business training classes for clients receiving loans

13. Groups meet weekly for courses in entrepreneurship, accounting, marketing, and management

14. Training is conducted at Rafode’s office or at the client’s location

15. Our training is designed to help our clients be successful entrepreneurs

16. Loan funding is disbursed upon the completion of training

17. A loan disbursement check

18. Managing thousands of loans disbursed across rural Kenya presents unique administrative challenges

19. Rafode continually strives to leverage IT to improve operational efficiencies and reduce administrative costs

20. Outstanding loans and repayments are carefully tracked

21. Rafode’sclients have a wide variety of businesses; here a client has recently opened a small restaurant known as the Obama Hotel

22. Preparing food behind the Obama Hotel

23. Rafode has provided funding to expand the selection at this small kiosk in a remote village

24. One client is using our loan to purchase irrigation equipment for his field

25. There is much work to be done; Rafode will tirelessly continue its mission of serving the rural poor