Symbiotics Capacity Building recently hosted a Learning Journey in Kenya and Uganda — an immersive programme designed to provide financial professionals with direct exposure to inclusive finance in practice.
By visiting local partners and meeting microfinance institutions (MFIs) and their clients, participants moved beyond theory to gain firsthand insight into how financial inclusion operates on the ground. Across both urban and rural contexts, they developed a deeper understanding of borrower profiles and the essential needs access to finance supports — from food and healthcare to education and housing.
A key takeaway was the significant role inclusive finance plays in advancing financial inclusion for women. The strong presence of female borrowers during site visits illustrated how access to financial services contributes to strengthening households and communities.
The Learning Journey also offered a broader perspective on the African financial ecosystem, highlighting the widespread adoption of mobile money and the innovation driving expanded access to financial services across the region.
Beyond the technical insights, the experience was marked by meaningful cultural exchange — sharing meals, listening to personal stories, and engaging in conversations that brought context and depth beyond financial metrics.
Watch the Learning Journey video recap
