Microfinance in South Sudan

November 18, 2009
Panel Discussion at the Hudson Institute

To shed light on one hopeful model, The Rev. Thomas Anei discussed his success in establishing microfinance in the southern village of Lietnhom. Working with Five Talents International, a Christian nonprofit organization specializing in microfinance, and Sudan's Episcopal Church, Rev. Anei helped set up South Sudan's first community-owned village bank and provides training for local residents to start and manage small businesses. The bank was unharmed by conflict that broke out between local clans in spring 2008, and helped residents to rebuild in the aftermath. It now claims over 500 members.