ISLAMABAD: The Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) has made it mandatory for non-banking microfinance companies (NBMFCs) to report data separately for men and women. This step will help SECP track women’s access to microfinance and address any challenges they face.
NBMFCs must submit this gender-based data and complaints through SECP’s ESG Sustain Portal. The collected information will provide insights into the experiences of female borrowers. This will help SECP identify gaps and introduce policies to support women in the sector.
To further protect consumers, SECP has introduced new rules. Microfinance companies must ensure that borrowers, especially women, fully understand loan terms. A proper complaint system must also be in place for their concerns.
ALSO READ >>> >>> Karachi gets 24-hour passport facility at North Nazimabad NADRA center
SECP has also made gender sensitization training compulsory for all staff, including board members and field teams. This training will help them serve female clients in a respectful and culturally aware manner.
These measures aim to strengthen women’s role in the microfinance sector and ensure fair financial access for all.