Loans of between $50 and $200 enable local entrepreneurs, mostly women, to get started and aid in the DRC’s recovery.

In many ways, the DRC has the perfect conditions for the introduction of local microfinance initiatives (MFI). Its Government of National Unity brings together officials from previous governments, rebel groups, and representatives from civil society, and is consolidating behind the notions of peace, progress and economic stability. After a decade-long recession, the country is experiencing modest economic growth and inflation has been brought under control. A start on financial liberalization has helped to bring in international financial intermediaries such as the Foundation for International Community Assistance (FINCA), so paving the way for increased provision of financial services to the Congolese population.

In an environment operated largely by the informal economy and where the public’s trust in financial intermediaries is extremely low, there is a pressing need to start money circulating. The Trust Merchant Bank, which opened for business in January last year, was created in order to satisfy the demand for small credits among the Congolese people. “I thought that this was the only formula that could contribute to raising our country out of poverty,” says Roberto Levi, the bank’s CEO. While he is aware of the high risks involved in setting up an MFI, Mr. Levi combined this part of the bank’s activities with a conventional banking department, and after a year is able to say that the enterprise is successful.

What might seem absurdly low amounts to someone from Europe or the U.S. are often enough to get a small business or cottage industry up and running. The Trust Merchant Bank lends between $50 and $200, mostly to women, and enjoys a repayment rate of around 100 percent. “We encourage our customers to save money on a regular basis,” says Mr. Levi. “After the first cycle we can increase the loans. We want our customers to become micro-entrepreneurs,” he adds.

In a context of political, economic and social recovery, the development of the microfinance sector takes time, and success depends on long-term commitment. “Any institution can come and succeed here if they decide to cooperate with the local people,” says Mr. Levi.