Paper

Microfinance and Health Program in Benin

What are the socio-economic factors that make a population more susceptible to malaria?
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This survey studied over 2000 women beneficiaries of microfinance programs in Benin. It uses structured questionnaires and interviews to obtain its data.

The survey aimed to:

  • Understand the socio-economic status and the level of education of the target population, and their understanding of the risks associated with malaria;
  • Enhance effective linkages with local non-government organizations (NGOs);
  • Stimulate microfinance institutions (MFIs) to inform their beneficiaries on health issues so that they can increase consciousness about the disease.

The survey reported:

  • The institutional structure of the local MFIs and their method of operations;
  • Their capacity to carry out an awareness program against malaria;
  • A strategy of integration of such a program with a credit program in order to decrease costs and increase outreach.

The survey examined the following aspects of the respondents:

  • Sector of activities;
  • Family and age;
  • Income and housing conditions;
  • Education;
  • Women empowerment;
  • Water and sanitation;
  • Hygiene;
  • Fight against malaria.

The survey found that:

  • Poverty is widespread;
  • Basic education levels are low;
  • Malaria is extensively present, especially among children;
  • Housing conditions are poor;
  • Sanitary measures are insufficient;
  • Protective measures against mosquito bites are inadequate.

The paper ends with recommendations to address the above issues for effective program implementation.

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