The Inclusion of Disabled People in Mainstream Microfinance Programmes

This paper addresses a hitherto neglected dimension of poverty - poverty as a consequence of disability. Disabled people need to be included in the poverty alleviation strategies to achieve the international development targets. The paper states that microfinance is gradually being accepted as a medium to economically improve the lives of such people.

Detailing the genesis of microfinance for the disabled, the author states that Leonard Cheshire, a UK registered organization initiated the process to ensure access of microfinance to the disabled people:

• Microfinance providers were made aware of needs and potential of poor disabled people;
• Misconceptions and increasing understanding of disabled people and staff in the projects about microfinance was initiated;
• More inclusive programs were implemented through partnerships with disability organizations and through changes in their policy and practices.

As per the author, the strength of affirming and including disabled people has been apparent:

• The economic and social gains of the disabled persons, who have participated in the programs, have been the most important output;
• The attitude of the community members have changed positively towards the disabled.

The paper concludes that:

• Disabled people, like any other poor people, can benefit from microfinancial services;
• Affirming disability and making it a consideration in programs design has helped to make the programs more attractive;
• As a strategy for poverty reduction, disabled people have a right to be included, and microfinance providers have a responsibility to target and include them in their work.