Forensic audit for Women’s Microfinance Bank as MPs slam poor performance
By Staff Writer, Parliamentary Watch
Zimbabwe’s Women’s Microfinance Bank came under sharp scrutiny in Parliament last week Tuesday, with MPs questioning whether the institution is meeting its mandate to expand affordable finance for women, especially those in rural and underserved communities.
Debating a report on the bank’s operations, Hon. D. Molokele said expectations had not been met, citing concerns that include undercapitalisation, limited access for disadvantaged women, lending constraints, and a lack of sufficient physical infrastructure. He urged a major review and stronger capital support so the bank can deliver a meaningful impact.
Hon. P. Moyo echoed concerns, saying public hearings pointed to weak publicity, limited outreach, and loan sizes that may be too small to sustain viable enterprises once costs are considered.
Deputy Minister of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprise Development, Hon. Mutimbanyoka, told the House the bank was established in 2018 and said it was currently under forensic audit. She said the government would pursue reforms aimed at improving visibility, accessibility, funding, and operational effectiveness.
The debate positioned the bank’s performance as a test case for targeted empowerment financing, with MPs signalling they expect measurable improvements in reach and delivery.
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