Kashf Foundation Unveils Annual Report 2024, Beyond the Horizon
Lahore, Pakistan – Dec 23, 2024 – Kashf Foundation, Pakistan’s leading microfinance institution, has released its 2024 Annual Report, reflecting a year marked by resilience, expansion, and transformative impact. Despite navigating an economic landscape defined by soaring inflation, political uncertainty, and the lingering effects of climate challenges, Kashf has continued not just to endure but expand its impact even in the face of economic and social upheavals.
A Year of Unparalleled Impact
In 2024, Kashf extended financial inclusion to 778,970 active clients across 382 branches in 69 districts, disbursing loans to support micro – enterprises and launching savings solutions designed to meet the diverse needs of women micro-entrepreneurs. These numbers represent more than transactions; they reflect lives changed and dreams realized.
Stories like Shabnam Baji’s showcase how Kashf’s initiatives enable women-led business growth even during economic challenges. Five years ago, with Kashf’s support, she started a small food packaging business, selling spices and dry fruits. What began as a modest venture has since flourished into a diverse enterprise, now offering balloons and hair clips to meet the needs of her growing customer base. Despite rising costs and economic pressures, Shabnam has not only managed to keep her business alive but has also ensured her daughter remains in school, prioritizing education as a cornerstone for the next generation’s success.
Kashf achieved an Operational Self-Sufficiency of 121% and Financial Self-Sufficiency of 110.39%, underscoring its resilience amidst economic challenges.
Beyond Microfinance: Empowering Women Holistically
Kashf’s transformative five-pillar approach ensures women are economically empowered and equipped with the tools to lead in every sphere of life. With 52% of its workforce and 55% of managerial roles held by women, Kashf leads by example in fostering gender equity within its operations.
Highlights from 2024 include:
- Building Resilience through Micro-Pensions: Introducing a micro-pension plan designed for low-income women, providing a pathway to financial security and resilience. The Khushal Mustaqbil Plan empowers women to build long-term safety nets, ensuring a dignified and stable future. With 5,000 women already on board, this initiative strengthens economic stability, helping women navigate unforeseen challenges and secure their later years with confidence.
- Capacity Building for Financial Independence and Entrepreneurship: Delivering financial literacy to 1.7 million women and business development training to 42,000 women with enhanced skills in budgeting, profit-loss analysis, and decision-making. Additionally, the Business Accelerator Trainings (BAT) equip women with digital marketing skills, enabling them to expand their businesses and navigate modern market dynamics effectively.
- Health & Well-Being through Accessible Safety Nets and Services: Expanding comprehensive health insurance and safety net solutions to 2.94 million individuals, Kashf addresses critical gaps in access to healthcare and insurance in underserved and remote areas. These initiatives provide vital coverage for medical emergencies, maternal and child health, and hospitalization needs, ensuring that Kashf clients & their families can access essential care without financial distress.
Transforming Narratives through Media and Advocacy
Recognizing the power of storytelling, Kashf scaled its media and advocacy initiatives to challenge deeply rooted social norms. The drama series Zard Patton Ka Bunn reached millions, sparking conversations around women’s health and gender equality, while over 2,000 live theatre performances empowered audiences to rethink entrenched beliefs.
Innovating for a Sustainable Future
Kashf continues to lead the way in addressing emerging challenges such as climate change and youth unemployment. New initiatives, like low–cost solar energy solutions and youth equity programs, aim to create sustainable solutions for long-term prosperity. The Solar Microgrid pilot project provided renewable energy solutions to underserved households, reducing electricity costs by 44% on average.
“Kashf’s journey is a celebration of resilience, courage, and innovation,” said Roshaneh Zafar, Managing Director, Kashf Foundation. “Each number represents a story of change, a step toward a more equitable Pakistan. As we look ahead, our resolve to empower women and create lasting impact remains unshaken.”
Looking Forward
Kashf Foundation’s work in 2024 underscores the importance of partnerships and collective action in driving sustainable change. Join us in shaping a future where every woman has the tools, confidence, and opportunities to lead.
