Launch of code of conduct for microfinance practitioners

From left: LMFPA President Imran Nafeer, CBSL Assistant Governor J P R Karunarathne , National Policy and Economic Development State Minister Dr. Harsha De Silva, LMFPA Treasurer 

Priyantha Dematagoda

Berendina Micro Investments Deputy Managing Director Charith Fernando receiving the 

acknowledgement certificate for signing the Code of Conduct   

A Code of Conduct targeting microfinance practitioners was introduced by the Lanka Microfinance Practitioners’ Association (LMFPA) on 24 July, at the Centre for Banking Studies in Colombo. Science, Technology, Research, Skills Development and Vocational Training, and Kandyan Heritage Minister Dr. Sarath Amunugama presided over the ceremony and National Policies and Economic Affairs State Minister Dr. Harsha De Silva delivered the keynote address.

The importance for a Code of Conduct to be adopted by the microfinance sector was underscored by the recent public debate around rising levels of indebtedness resulting from microfinance loans. The practices adopted by microfinance institutions, both those that are regulated and unregulated, have therefore come under much scrutiny. Under these circumstances, the LMFPA felt the need to introduce a Code of Conduct, which would help guide and anchor the sector as it expands its services to a growing client base. 

The adoption of the Code by practitioners will help ensure that the highest level of professionalism, ethical conduct, and good governance are observed by the members of the LMFPA. Since the microfinance institutions cater to a particular socioeconomic stratum in society, the Code of Conduct helps ensure that microfinance services are provided in a manner that benefits and respects clients. 

Developed in consultation with multiple stakeholders, upon adoption by the sector, the Code of Conduct promises to be a powerful document that would shape how microfinance institutions carry out their respective businesses. The code targets specific areas of practice, which include maintaining transparency and healthy competition, loan disbursement and recovery practices, developing a feedback mechanism, better information sharing, and maintaining the quality of the staff of the institutions. In short, the Code reiterates the commitment on the part of LMFPA members, to adhere to and maintain certain standards of conduct, which would assuage some of the major concerns raised by the public.

One of the key highlights and discussion points in the Code of Conduct will be on the guidelines offered to reduce over-indebtedness. The Code details how such situations can be minimised, by taking into consideration the burden of outstanding loans prior to granting a new loan, the importance of considering the disposable income of the household, and in ensuring that mainstream loan products have 06 months or more in tenure. 

In a special statement at the ceremony, Dr. Sarath Amunugama conveyed that the introduction of the Code of Conduct is a commendable and timely intervention. He further added: “Enabling better access to finance for lower-income households is of importance to the Government. But it is of equal importance that competition among the providers does not contribute towards high levels of indebtedness. Self-regulation and compliance by the industry will help protect the interests of both the clients and industry in the long run.”

Commenting on the landmark initiative, LMFPA President Imran Nafeer stressed the importance of sector-wide acceptance of the Code of Conduct: “As the representative body, the LMFPA has a special role to play in setting standards for our members. Through the introduction, and hopefully, adoption of this Code of Conduct, we believe the basic principles governing the business model of microfinance institutions can be protected from unethical practices. This will undoubtedly help our members grow in a sustainable manner, and just as importantly, help safeguard the clients by not overburdening them with debt that they cannot subsequently repay. The Code of Conduct is our way of showing that as an industry, we need to be both sensitive to, and cognizant of the changes taking place within the sector. The importance of responding in a proactive manner cannot be stressed enough.” 

Founded over a decade ago and incorporated as a non-profit organisation under the Companies Act No. 7 of 2007, the Lanka Microfinance Practitioners’ Association is a network formed by several microfinance practitioners in Sri Lanka, to enhance the ability of the members to provide quality financial services to grassroots communities. LMFPA strives to achieve this goal through the promotion of microfinance, and by encouraging cooperation, sharing information, and assistance between member practitioners and stakeholders. Governed by a Board of Directors, the LMFPA is recognised by the Central Bank of Sri Lanka, Government authorities, institutions and other stakeholders as the coordinating body of microfinance institutions in 

Sri Lanka.