In the second part of the interview, Dr. Amjad Saqib [Executive Director of Akhuwat] highlights some of the milestones of Akhuwat's journey including the disbursement of over 1.2 million rupees worth of loans, benefiting over 100, 000 families and extending its branch network to 60 in three provinces of Pakistan. Additionally, a unique feature of the Akhuwat model has been the transformation of its borrower's to donors; in the last year alone, donations from the poor reached 14 million rupees. He also sheds light on Akhuwat's efforts in flood affected areas, where despite warnings by experts, Akhuwat ventured in the area immediately after the devastating floods. Beating all odds, Akhuwat managed to secure the trust of the people which was evident in the 100% loan recovery rate. Akhuwat was established in 2001 with aims of providing the poor with interest-free microfinance. The function of Akhuwat is based on an innovative model which operates within four main principles which include: providing interest-free loans, distributing funds through indigenous institutions, fostering the spirit of volunteerism, and transforming donors into borrowers. For more information visit www.akhuwat.org.pk

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