i don’t know enough about OIBM to really answer all of your questions. Maybe Mike or Claudia will help answer some of them.

But, I don’t have any problem with a bank supporting christian teachings and building churches. Better than supporting money-laundering of drug money. Or Mr. Abacha and co.

Non-governmental christian organisations tend to be more effective in reaching out to communities. They are more grass-roots orientated than other approaches. And tend to spend less money for administration, i.e. more help reaches the poor.

Throughout the years, christian schools and hospitals have served all Malawians from all religious backgrounds.

Church buildings also help communities in practical ways. During the week the buildings are often used by privately-owned schools.

(I’m biased: I’m a christian and believe in christian values.)

And before you decide to invest in one of the above mentioned micro-finance institutions, please do your own research and find out for yourself if it’s an option for you…