Impact of community-based micro-finance in urban poverty reduction in Bangladesh

Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed to assess the impact of community-based microfinance in reducing urban poverty with a particular focus on Sylhet City, Bangladesh. Methodology: The Community Saving & Credit (CSC) strategy of the Urban Partnership for Poverty Reduction project was chosen as a case in this study. This study used a qualitative research approach by following focus group discussions and in-depth interviews as data collection instruments. The purposive sampling method has been observed to collect data from 20 (twenty) respondents from Sylhet City Corporation's two slum areas, where the Urban Partnerships for Poverty Reduction Project was implemented like other urban areas of Bangladesh. Findings: The study findings show that implementing the Community Saving and Credit (CSC) strategy in Sylhet City has reduced poverty among those who applied for loans. It has enhanced the availability of food, made housing more affordable, diversified income sources, improved health conditions, increased access to education, and amplified the voice of women, especially those in poverty. Research implications: This research will help the government to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It will also inform the government about local perceptions regarding the dimensions of escaping poverty. After knowing about the locally specific dimensions of getting out of poverty and the effect of the CBM system in reducing poverty, the government and the policymakers can plan additional steps to operate community-based microcredit systems to reduce poverty.