In a strategic effort to enhance the operational capacity of its branch managers, KIMS partnered with the International Finance Corporation (IFC) to deliver an intensive four-day training program in Hargeisa. This initiative focused on two critical areas: Making Microfinance Work and Financial Analysis, aiming to equip participants with advanced managerial skills and technical knowledge pivotal for driving microfinance success.
Objectives of the Training
The training sought to:
- Empower branch managers with effective tools and frameworks for managing microfinance operations more efficiently.
- Deepen understanding of financial analysis to improve decision-making and portfolio management.
- Strengthen participants’ ability to address practical challenges in microfinance delivery.
Key Training Modules
- Making Microfinance Work:
- Explored the manager’s mandate in microfinance institutions, focusing on planning, organizing, leading, and controlling.
- Highlighted strategies for risk management, enhancing productivity, and fostering customer loyalty.
- Introduced innovative approaches to market research and product development tailored for low-income clients.
- Financial Analysis:
- Focused on financial performance metrics, including portfolio quality, return on assets (ROA), and operational self-sufficiency.
- Provided insights into cost management, pricing strategies, and budgeting for sustainability.
- Emphasized the use of data-driven decision-making to address challenges and optimize branch performance.
The program is graced by the presence of the CEO Abdisalan Abdillahi Ali , Deputy CEO Omer Abdi Jama, underlining the organization’s commitment to building a robust leadership team. Senior members of the IFC team actively participated, sharing global best practices and facilitating interactive discussions that encouraged knowledge sharing among branch managers.
Outcomes and Impact
- Enhanced Skills: Participants gained practical tools to manage branch operations more effectively, with a focus on aligning institutional goals with client needs.
- Strategic Insights: The training emphasized the importance of balancing outreach and financial sustainability, enabling managers to address trade-offs in microfinance delivery.
- Networking Opportunities: The program fostered collaboration among branch managers, creating a platform for exchanging ideas and experiences.
The four-day training by IFC marks a significant milestone in KIMS’ journey toward excellence in microfinance management. By equipping its branch managers with advanced skills and knowledge, KIMS has taken a critical step toward improving its service delivery, expanding outreach, and achieving long-term sustainability. The learnings from this program will undoubtedly contribute to the growth and impact of KIMS in fostering financial inclusion across its Branches in the country.
