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SCOPING AND ASSESSMENT REPORT – MSME ACCESS TO FINANCE ECOSYSTEM IN AFRICA
ANNEXURE: 2020 SMEFWG – QUESTIONNAIRE TO INFORM THE POLICY FRAMEWORK FOR THE MSME FINANCING ECOSYSTEM IN AFRICA The survey questionnaire that was used in the survey among the AFI SME Finance Working Group members is given below.
INTRODUCTION Micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) play a major role in most economies, particularly in developing countries. MSMEs constitute approximately 90 percent of businesses and provide more than 50 percent of employment worldwide, contributing 35 percent to global gross domestic product (GDP). MSMEs act as export enablers for developing countries and provide real economic inclusivity for women, with 30 percent of MSMEs run by women. A large number of MSMEs in developing countries often have limited access to finance and face challenges in accessing traditional financial service providers, such as banks. This is especially true for start-up businesses, due to their lack of income and lack of collateral assets.
This information from this survey will be used to construct the basic policy framework for the MSME financing ecosystem, which will then be enhanced by further engagement with AFI members from the Africa region before publication. In the context of this survey and the ensuing policy framework, the term MSME is used in the same context as in AFI Guidance Note 36 SME Finance Guideline Note. The term refers to formal enterprises that have been registered by a recognized authority or agency. The definition of these enterprises varies from country to country, so the survey relies on each country’s definition, preferably one set out by law or a particular set of regulations. Some of the questions in the survey refer to informal enterprises as well, but in all cases these are denoted as such. These questions are aimed at getting insight into the size of the informal segment and what member countries are doing to address informality. The terms used in the questionnaire are consistent with the use of terms in previous AFI publications. Please refer to the attached Annex if necessary.
GENERAL INFORMATION Name: Institution: Email Address:
In view of these constraints faced by MSMEs, AFI is developing a policy framework to enable members to enhance the MSME financing ecosystem in Africa. The framework will guide members to develop MSME financing policies and to identify best practices. These can then be used to provide recommendations on ways of bridging the MSME credit gaps in countries, thereby unlocking the potential of MSMEs to further contribute to growth in the African region.
SECTION 1 - MSME ACCESS TO FINANCE POLICY
The objective of this questionnaire is to collect information on the policies and current state of the MSME access to finance landscape in all AFI member institution countries. Policy initiatives that have been particularly successful will be identified, with a view to determine best practice. Information on enabling women and youth-led MSMEs and initiatives to promote green financing will also be collected, given the importance of these segments to ensure inclusivity and sustainability.
Q1.2 Please specify which institution has the primary responsibility for this policy.
Q1.1 Is there a specific approved policy relating to MSME access to finance in your country? Yes In the process of drafting / enactment No Do not know
Q1.3 Are there multi-institutional structures or working groups involved in the oversight of the policy? Yes In the process of setting up No Do not know
