Overview
The Microfinance industry in Yemen is an important tool in the overall expansion of the Yemeni economy. For the past two decades, the microfinance industry was able to issue loans with the cumulative value of approximately USD 50 millions (i.e. around 800,000 loans given to a total of 100,000 micro and small enterprises). The medium, small and micro enterprises have played a significant role in income generation, poverty eradication, job creation (i.e. creating over 9,895 jobs), as well as the overall expansion of the economy.
However, recent studies stated that:
1
The potential market for MSMEs finance in Yemen has a size of around 1.78 million microenterprises and 85,000 small enterprises.
2
The current microfinance industry in Yemen serves approximately 9% of the actual market size .
3
Over 61% of the rejected loans applicants were rejected due to the lack of sufficient collaterals.
Unfortunately, a large percentage of entrepreneurs cannot provide required guarantees, in whole or in part, though they are capable of paying installments and performing subsequent obligations in order to secure the service. Hence, the need for a service that provides a conducive business environment that allows micro and small enterprises to take advantage of opportunities in the economy has become urgent and essential.
YLG undertakes various types of projects including long-term projects to establish an operationally sustainable revenue stream for YLG, diversify our range of products and services to support our mission, vision and strategic goals, and provide clients with added-value and services. YLG also supports client retention and grows with their business needs. This includes Micro-Insurance, Client Capacity Building (Direct Clients - PFIs), and Client Capacity Building (Indirect Clients – End Borrowers).
