MAINTAINING ORDER IN THE MICROFINANCE SECTOR IN GHANA

Abstract

This study examines the processes of maintaining order in the microfinance sector, particularly, the processes of resolving disputes, the types and causes of disputes that arise between microfinance institutions, their clients and workers. The study used empirical evidence derived from microfinance institutions, their clients as well as employees and commission agents within the Greater Accra Region of Ghana to aid in the examination of how order is maintained as well as the processes of resolving disputes in the microfinance sector. The study suggests that the adoption of an informal alternative dispute resolution mechanism yields better and cheaper results than litigation or legal means. The study further suggests that, parties to a microfinance transaction are reluctant to resort to litigation and would rather borrow at high interest rates to pay off loans than litigate. The findings show that MFIs maintained order by keeping good working relationships with their clients and staff as well as conducting credit or background checks on both clients and staff before dealing with them. Record keeping was also found to be crucial in the maintenance of order in the microfinance sector.