A high-level delegation from the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group, and the Microcredit Regulatory Authority (MRA) of Bangladesh recently visited SAFCO Microfinance Company (Private) Limited (SMCL) in Hyderabad to study Pakistan’s affordable housing finance initiatives, housing microfinance interventions, and SAFCO’s conventional and Shariah-compliant Islamic housing finance model. The knowledge exchange visit was aimed at understanding innovative approaches to expanding affordable housing finance for low-income communities and strengthening regional cooperation in housing microfinance.
Delegation Composition and Reception
The delegation included Ms. Ayesha Baig, Senior Operations Officer, Financial Institutions Group, IFC; Mr. Mohammad Yakub Hossain, Executive Director, MRA; Mr. Mohammad Kamal Hossain, Director, MRA; Mr. Suman Chakma, Joint Director, MRA; and Mr. Md. Arifuzzaman, Executive Director, MRA. They were received at SAFCO’s Head Office by Dr. Suleman G. Abro, Founder, President and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Syed Sajjad Ali Shah, Managing Director, and the company’s senior management.
Presentations on Housing Finance Landscape
During the visit, SAFCO presented Pakistan’s housing finance landscape, the evolution of its Housing Microfinance Programme, and its decades-long experience in developing affordable housing solutions for low-income households, including post-disaster housing reconstruction initiatives dating back to the 1992 floods. The presentations highlighted SAFCO’s integrated approach to conventional and Islamic housing finance, digital underwriting and credit assessment, environmental and social risk management, corporate governance, and its sustainable financing model designed to promote financial inclusion and improve access to affordable housing.
Field Visit to Housing Finance Clients
The delegation also visited SAFCO’s housing finance clients to observe the practical impact of housing microfinance. They witnessed how access to affordable housing finance has enabled low-income families to construct, renovate, and expand their homes, leading to improved living conditions, enhanced climate resilience, better health and sanitation, and greater socio-economic stability.
Remarks by SAFCO CEO
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Suleman G. Abro said that access to safe and affordable housing is fundamental to sustainable development and poverty reduction. He said SAFCO’s housing finance model has evolved through decades of experience in community development, disaster recovery, and inclusive finance, and continues to address the housing needs of underserved communities while generating lasting social and economic impact.
Discussions on Policy and Regional Collaboration
The visit also provided an opportunity for discussions on policy and regulatory frameworks, operational practices, and emerging trends in housing microfinance. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening regional collaboration, sharing knowledge and best practices, and promoting innovation in affordable housing finance. The visit concluded with a shared commitment to continue cooperation in advancing housing microfinance solutions that improve the quality of life for low-income households while contributing to sustainable economic growth and stronger community resilience across South Asia.
