The project

For 25 years, Mary has been selling second-hand clothing from her stall at Gikomba Market in Nairobi, Kenya's capital. Her stall is the sole source of income for her family. Especially in the early years, Mary struggled to keep her stall running. The government imposes strict regulations on entrepreneurs, and it is harder for women to obtain financing in Kenya than for men. Despite these challenges, Mary has persevered, and today she can offer affordable clothing to low-income people, thereby also contributing to society.

Thanks to the financial support from U&I Microfinance, which focuses on low-income female entrepreneurs, Mary has been able to expand her stock. A larger inventory means more sales and thus a more stable income for her family. She earns just enough to pay for her children's school fees and to always have enough food on the table. The fact that she, as a woman, contributes financially to a better life for her children gives her great satisfaction.

Your investment in U&I Microfinance helps 36 young people and female entrepreneurs like Mary gain access to essential financing.

What social return could your investment generate? 

Cultural norms often limit Kenyan women's economic activities. They have limited access to education and formal jobs, leading many into low-paid informal sectors. U&I Microfinance Bank addresses these challenges by providing financial solutions tailored to these women's situations. By investing in U&I, you support not only financial inclusion and equality but also help women and youth whom traditional banks often overlook.

What financial return could your investment generate? 

• Annual interest rate: 7%.
• The loan term is 36 months.
• The investment is repaid in six equal installments every six months over a period of 36 months. Interest is also paid out every six months.
• With an investment of 1,000 euros, the expected total repayment is 1,123 euros.

The story of U&I Microfinance

Since its inception in 2007, U&I Microfinance Bank has focused on improving marginalized groups' access to credit. In 2013, U&I Microfinance Bank received a license from the Central Bank of Kenya to operate as a savings and loan institution. Four years later, in 2017, they received a national license, allowing them to grow from a local to a nationwide microfinance institution. Now, with branches in Nairobi, Kiambu, and Machakos, U&I continues its mission to change lives through financial services, focusing on women and youth.

U&I in numbers

• Founded in 2007 as a microfinance institution.
• Operates through four branches in Nairobi County, Kiambu County, and Machakos County.
• 46 employees.
• Winner of the Overall Best Microfinance Banking Award in Kenya in 2022.