During a recent trip to Tanzania, FINCA Global CEO Andrée Simon toured the Kariakoo Market to meet local traders and customers.
The Kariakoo Market is one of the oldest and most vibrant commercial hubs in Dar es Salaam. It brings together a wide range of businesses, from small-scale traders and informal vendors to large wholesalers — reflecting the strong spirit of entrepreneurship and economic activity in Tanzania.
During Andrée’s visit to the market, several business owners shared how access to FINCA’s financial services has helped them grow their businesses and improve their livelihoods.
“I started borrowing small amounts of loan for my small business and grew year to year. I am still loyal to FINCA as they gave me a loan while I was rejected by other banks because of business documentation.” – Shufaa Mahsen Salum, FINCA client for more than 5 years and Market Chairperson
“Kariakoo stands as a strong example of how inclusive finance can drive meaningful economic and social transformation both for entrepreneurs and for their communities,” said Andree. “I am so grateful for the opportunity to spend time with our customers, not only to hear about their successes, but also to better understand the challenges they face so we can co-create solutions that deliver real impact. We are already working to address two of the biggest issues they raised — costs and collateral requirements.”
Andrée was in Dar es Salaam for a convening of global leaders and African subsidiary CEOs focused on expanding access and tailoring products to meet customers’ needs. FINCA Tanzania was proud to host the gathering and share local insights to help inform customer-centered solutions in Tanzania and across FINCA’s global network.