MFC Joins the Central Asian Microfinance Forum 2026 in Almaty
On 21 September 2026, the Microfinance Centre (MFC) will participate in the Central Asian Microfinance Forum 2026 in Almaty, Kazakhstan, as a partner of the event alongside the Association of Microfinance Organisations of Kazakhstan (AMFOK) and the Coordination Council of Associations of Microfinance Organisations of Central Asian Countries.
The Forum is one of the region’s leading platforms for dialogue on the future of microfinance and financial inclusion in Central Asia. It is expected to bring together 350-400 representatives of microfinance institutions, government authorities, regulators, international financial institutions, investors, banks, fintech companies and industry associations from Central Asia, Europe and beyond.
Drawing on our experience from previous editions, MFC recognises the Forum as an important opportunity to exchange knowledge, strengthen regional cooperation and discuss the developments shaping microfinance markets across the region. The event also provides valuable networking opportunities for many MFC members and partners operating in Central Asia.
MFC's Contribution to the Agenda
MFC representatives will actively contribute to this year’s discussions:
- Wojciech Stępień, CEO of MFC, will deliver a welcoming address during the official opening of the Forum. His remarks will focus on the importance of regional cooperation, current international developments in microfinance, and perspectives on the future of the sector in Central Asia.
- Archil Bakuradze, Chair of the MFC Council, will moderate the session “An International Perspective on the Development of Microfinance”, bringing together international views on the opportunities and challenges facing the sector.
Key Topics
This year’s programme will focus on the practical changes already transforming the industry, including:
- Regulatory transformation
- New sources of funding
- Digitalisation of microfinance organisations
- Cyber fraud prevention
- Consumer protection
- Responsible finance principles
The Forum will feature representatives of major international financial institutions and professional associations, including the Asian Development Bank (ADB), European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), International Finance Corporation (IFC), MFC, and the Banking Association for Central and Eastern Europe (BACEE), alongside regulators and industry leaders from across the region.
The event will conclude with the adoption of the Almaty Declaration, outlining key priorities and principles for the future development of the microfinance sector in Central Asia.
Event Details
Date: 21 September 2026
Venue: The Ritz-Carlton Almaty, Kazakhstan