THE SALIENT CHARACTERISTICS OF MICROFINANCE INSTITUTIONS IN KENYA : (A Case Study of BIMAS)

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to come up with a profile of the salient socio-economic characteristic of people who seek MFIs’ services. Specifically, the study was to shed light on their poverty status and their demographic characteristics. The research focused on clients of BIMAS operating within the five divisions of Embu district. The research findings gave a general profile of the clients reached by MFIs. The MFI clients are mainly male in the 26-40 age brackets that live in households of between 4 and 6 members which are predominantly male headed. A high proportion of the clients are married and do not suffer from any physical disability. Slightly over half of the clients have attained secondary school education and most have attended other training. In terms of their poverty status, over half of the clients have their children attending school. Majority can afford at least three ordinary meals per day and special meals thrice per week. The clients live in their own houses which have three or fewer rooms. The houses are largely made of brick walls, iron sheet roofs and concrete floors. The main source of energy for client household is firewood and charcoal and majority of them own a television.

Key Words: Socio-economic characteristics, Demographic characteristics, Poverty status