Microbalkans 2024: A Microfinance Conference Organized in Sarajevo

During 31 October – 1 November 2024, Pavol Kapsdorfer, MFC Network and Partnership Manager participated at the Microbalkans24, a first Western Balkan microfinance conference organized in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina. He presented the position of the Balkan microfinance sector in the European microfinance market as well as MFC observed trends and developments of the microfinance sector.  Ewa Bankowska, MFC Deputy Director, participated online with her presentation on Borrow wisely campaign, recognizing the Balkan sector for ongoing commitment to social mission and their client’s ethical treatment, educating them and their families on how to borrow wisely.  

The conference brought together over 200 practitioners from the microcredit sector of the Western Balkans, as well as key stakeholders from the region and beyond, to discuss the most important topics shaping the future of the microfinance sector, including digitization, ESG initiatives with a focus on the energy transition and the role of women in the sector, and the indispensable regulatory framework.  

The importance of the conference has been also confirmed with the personal presence of Ms. Jasmina Selimovic, the Governor of Central Bank in Bosnia and Herzegovina, who addressed opening speech. She emphasized the significant role of the microfinance sector in Bosnia and Herzegovina and across the Western Balkans, which goes beyond financial assistance alone. Many families, especially in rural areas, depend on this access to finance to improve their living conditions, develop agricultural production, or start entrepreneurial activities that bring security and stability. Each approved microloan represents not only financial support, but also a message of trust, hope and opportunities. Governor Selimović also highlighted the importance of personalizing access to users and providing non-financial services, such as counseling and education, which is becoming a key element of the success of the microfinance sector. 

This event represented a key step towards the establishment of the Alliance of Microfinance Institutions for the Western Balkans, with the aim of improving the business environment and strengthening cooperation among microfinance institutions. During the event, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between other MFC members, microfinance associations, from Western Balkan countries has been signed to formalize this important initiative.  

Special congratulations to Elma Zukic, President of Association of Microfinance Institutions in Bosnia and Herzegovina and her team for organizing successful event and coordinating the establishment of the Alliance.