Robert Masinde

Diary of a Microfinance Practitioner Lessons from My Journey as a Microfinance Entrepreneur As I reflect on my experience building VIRL Financial Services, I am reminded of the key factors that have contributed to where the business is right now. I have learned that adaptability, strategic partnerships, and a commitment to social impact are crucial in driving growth and making a difference but this must be underpinned by a stable funding source. Adaptability is Key In our journey, we have had to pivot and adjust to changing market conditions and customer needs. About 15 years ago microfinance was about issuing loans, but currently it is not just about access to finance but rather access to a lifestyle even for those at the bottom of the pyramid. The Power of Strategic Partnerships Securing investment from organizations like the Africa Enterprise Challenge Fund (AECF), EEP and SIMA has been instrumental in our stability and impact. The rate at which a business accesses funding on time can make or break a business and affects the rate of growth. So being in control of the timing of funding is of essence but this is out of control for most entrepreneurs. Commitment to Social Impact At VIRL, we are driven by a passion for financial inclusion and a desire to empower individuals and small businesses. (I attended a women workshop in which a presenter was very candid to say that passion alone does not get you far). Over the years I have often reflected on that and indeed it is important to have passion in what one does but without the other pillars, access to finance, a good team, top notch processes and procedures, that passion can become an albatross, VIRL's focus on clean energy adoption and rural economic development has been critical to promoting sustainable development and improving livelihoods and this attracted funders of the same mindset. Leadership and Expertise Leadership cannot be commandeered. What is important is building a strong team and leveraging expertise to drive impact. VIRL staff members' dedication and expertise have been essential in shaping the vision and strategy and it is amazing what a young team can achieve given the space to be heard and to grow. To Aspiring Entrepreneurs If you considering a journey in busine, here are some key takeaways from my experience: ·      Be adaptable and resilient: Be prepared to pivot and adjust to changing circumstances. ·      Not all businesses can be bootstrapped, find partners who may open access to funding. Have a clear funding pathway for the passion. ·      Build strategic partnerships: Identify opportunities for collaboration and investment that can drive growth and impact. ·      Keep your focus on making a difference and solving problems in communities. ·      Challenges can turn into business opportunities. I hope my experience can inspire and guide someone on their own journey. .AECF EEP Africa Social Investment Managers & Advisors (SIMA Funds) VIRL Financial Services

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💡 Smart Capital, Shared Growth: Scaling Development through Blended Finance 🌍 Invest Africa Ltd, in partnership with KPMG East Africa, is hosting an exclusive session in Nairobi exploring how blended finance is unlocking new opportunities for sustainable growth across the region. 📅 Wednesday 17 September 2025 | 08:00 – 10:00 | Nairobi 🔗 Register Your Interest: https://lnkd.in/enKCYUeg Kenya possesses significant natural and strategic advantages - from its fertile agricultural land and abundant renewable energy resources to a growing consumer base and a well-established financial sector. However, to fully unlock this potential and achieve inclusive industrial growth, the region must overcome persistent financing gaps. Blended finance is gaining traction as a vital tool to close these financing gaps. By mitigating risk and improving the commercial viability of high-impact projects, blended finance is helping crowd in private capital in key sectors. Featured speakers include: ● Smita Sanghrajka, Partner, International Development Advisory Services, KPMG East Africa ● Grace Mberia, Partner, International Development Advisory Services, KPMG ● Seema Dhanani, CFA, Head of Office, Kenya & Coverage Director, East Africa, British International Investment ● Muathi Kilonzo, Managing Director, NCBA Investment Bank ● George Odo, Senior Partner & MD, East & Southern Africa, AfricInvest Group Join senior leaders, investors and industry experts as we explore how blended finance is being effectively deployed in the region to catalyse investment into areas such as transport and logistics infrastructure, agri-processing, renewable energy, affordable housing, and light manufacturing. #InvestAfrica #InvestInAfrica #BlendedFinance #SustainableDevelopment #EconomicGrowth #KPMG

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The Bumpa management tool is helping business owners grow their sales, manage inventory, and streamline operations, all while selling online. In this video, CEO Kelvin Umechukwu and Bumpa merchants talk about how fast, reliable payments make it easy to receive instant payments and keep scaling.

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Diamond Trust Bank (DTB) has expanded its footprint with the opening of a new branch in Kilimani, Nairobi, bringing its branch network to 90 in Kenya and 150 across East Africa. This milestone marks a significant step in DTB’s strategic growth plan to strengthen accessibility and deliver financial services closer to customers in key regions. The new branch reflects the bank’s focus on proximity, inclusivity, and providing diverse financial solutions tailored to the needs of its clientele. Strategically located at 197 Lenana Place along Lenana Road, the Kilimani branch will serve a diverse customer base that includes individuals, corporates, and entrepreneurs operating in one of Nairobi’s most vibrant and fast-growing suburbs. The choice of Kilimani underscores DTB’s commitment to aligning its services with urban growth centers, where innovation, commerce, and residential demand intersect. By doing so, the bank ensures that financial services are not only available but also accessible in areas driving Nairobi’s economic dynamism. The new branch will offer a comprehensive suite of services, including personal and business accounts, loans, mortgages, insurance, cards, and investment opportunities. Customers will also benefit from DTB’s robust digital platforms that guarantee seamless transactions, while branch services provide the personalized touch that builds stronger customer relationships. This hybrid approach demonstrates DTB’s understanding of evolving consumer preferences, balancing digital convenience with face-to-face advisory support. Speaking at the launch, Otiende George, DTB’s Director of Retail Banking, emphasized that the Kilimani branch embodies the bank’s dedication to accessibility and personalized service. He noted that the vibrant business and residential character of Kilimani makes it an ideal location to connect with professionals, corporates, and entrepreneurs seeking financial growth. DTB’s expansion continues to highlight its role as a trusted partner walking alongside customers in their journey of prosperity and regional development. Nasim Devji #DTB #Banking #FinancialInclusion #CustomerService #BankingInnovation #Nairobi #EastAfrica #BranchExpansion #BusinessGrowth #BankingExcellence https://lnkd.in/dGfa_jM8

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