Ebda’a Microfinance Company marked its 17th anniversary, highlighting a pioneering track record in supporting entrepreneurs across Bahrain, advancing financial inclusion, and helping turn creative ideas into productive projects that contribute to the national economy.
Mona Al Moayyed, Chairperson of the company, commented: “This anniversary highlights the company’s journey since its establishment on February 11, 2009 as Bahrain’s first specialised microfinance institution, launched under the patronage and support of Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, Wife of His Majesty the King and President of the Supreme Council for Women, and at the initiative of the late His Royal Highness Prince Talal bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, founder of the Arab Gulf Programme for Development (AGFUND), reflecting a shared belief in the role of microfinance in supporting low-income individuals and strengthening financial inclusion.’”
Al Moayyed stated that the company is proud of its 17-year record of supporting small and micro-entrepreneurs. From the outset, the company’s aim has been to expand economic opportunity, strengthen a culture of financial inclusion, and convert talent and capability into productive ventures that support Bahrain’s growth.
To date, Ebdaa has extended more than 24,000 financing facilities with a total value exceeding BD28 million, including more than 10,000 facilities provided to Bahraini women, exceeding BD12 million in value. These figures reflect Ebdaa’s firm priority to place Bahraini women and their economic empowerment at the centre of its work, broaden access to the financing services and products it offers, and reinforce women’s role as an active partner in achieving sustainable development.
Al Moayyed praised the Supreme Council for Women’s continued support in advancing programmes for the economic empowerment of Bahraini women, alongside a productive partnership with Tamkeen in managing the dedicated financing portfolio. She also highlighted the Central Bank of Bahrain’s role in providing a supportive regulatory framework that enables microfinance institutions to deliver sustainable development impact in line with national financial inclusion goals and economic stability.
“Ebdaa’s role has not been limited to providing financing. It has also focused on building long term relationships with customers, grounded in a clear understanding of their needs and the provision of flexible financing solutions that support the sustainability and growth of their projects. This approach has contributed to many success stories, with positive effects on individuals, families, and Bahraini society.”
“As we enter our 17th year, we will continue improving our financing products and services to match market needs and Bahrain’s economic priorities. Our customers will remain the core of our future strategy, as they have always been the foundation of Ebdaa’s journey since its establishment.” said Al Moayyed. – TradeArabia News Service
