PMIC believes in improving the lives of the economically poor through financial and advisory services that create employment and income opportunities. For years PMIC and its shareholders (Pakistan Poverty Alleviation Fund -PPAF, DFID through Karandaaz Pakistan and the German Development Bank KfW) have collaborated to address deep-rooted issues that hinder advancement towards prosperity. The PMIC-KfW Renewable Energy Initiative through Microfinance (PRIME) is yet another milestone in this conducive partnership. PRIME is a Euro 15 million loan programme that will be used to finance Solar Home Solutions (SHS) to the poor and off-grid areas in Pakistan for 200,000 households, thereby advancing the 7th Sustainable Development Goal of 'Affordable and Clean Energy for All'. The programme will build capacity of microfinance providers, catalyze quality production and distribution of solar products, and develop a responsible financing mechanism enabling the microfinance sector of Pakistan. A diverse group of stakeholders attended the launch event, drawing a crowd of over 150 including dignitaries, regulators, delegates from the private sector, development agencies, government, commercial banks, development rural support programmes, microfinance providers, local and international NGOs among others. The initiative highlighted the importance of this growing sector in addressing the energy access gap and access to finance, pressing needs in Pakistan.

In his introductory remarks, Yasir Ashfaq, CEO PMIC added that 'PMIC is committed to delivering sustainable financial services, PRIME focuses on provision of quality verified solar home solutions is definitely our priority with the aim to contribute towards climate change and sustainable development'.

In her address to the audience Dr Vera Molitor Project Manager KfW reiterated KfW's commitment to the financial sector and renewable energy solutions for the underserved with the overarching objective to contribute towards climate change.

Farrukh H. Sabzwari Commissioner Specialised Companies Division (Policy, Regulation and Development Department & Supervision & Enforcement Department), SECP emphasized on SECP's support to the microfinance sector, PMIC and its endeavors to promote financial inclusion in Pakistan. He indicated that SECP is encouraging innovation through initiatives in digital finance and mentioned PRIME as another example of a technology driven initiative.

In his closing remarks, Naved A. Khan, Chairman PMIC emphasized on the need for partnerships, creating synergies for impact investments and for government initiatives focusing on access to energy for all.

Access to energy is a key contributor to reducing poverty, stimulating economic activity, improving the health of women and children, and facilitating education. Additionally, energy has been recognized as a priority area for the Government of Pakistan. Vendors and service providers expressed their commitment to the programme with the resolve to work together towards enhancing financial inclusion and promoting access to clean and affordable energy in line with the SDGs 2030.-PR

Copyright Business Recorder, 2019