After a 20 hour journey from London to Blantyre, Malawi, we finally arrived at the OIBM offices exhausted and moaning about sleep deprivation. However, we were soon humbled as we heard the experiences of our future clients in Nsanje, deep in Southern Malawi. According to our colleagues, this region is home to one of the largest unbanked populations in the country. Of those who do save, 60% do so by keeping cash at home or in a secret hiding place - usually their pillow case! Suddenly, one uncomfortable night trying to sleep on an aeroplane (with free comfy socks even!) seems a luxury.
Nsanje has very high poverty levels and is continually threatened by the risks of flood and drought. The roads are often impassable. This year, they face extra challenges as the rainy season started 2 months late and is persisting today. As farming is the main source of income in the region, many families are extremely vulnerable at the moment. The maize crop, Malawi's food staple, has been heavily affected.
OIBM has conducted a feasibility study in the region and has determined the need for its services is great. The poor in Nsanje really need access to secure savings facilities in order to manage risks and build assets upon which they can draw during off seasons and poor harvests. Opportunity UK is currently seeking funding to enable OIBM to expand to Nsanje. We would certainly sleep more comfortably tonight if we could be sure that these individuals werent literally sleeping on their Kwacha.
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