April 2, 2009
While microfinance has become well-established across the world, YOSEFO believes there is still much room for innovation and improvement.  We believe energetic young people are an important source of that innovation.  With that in mind, YOSEFO has always been happy to accept volunteers from around the world to assist in our poverty eradication efforts--and also to get a firsthand glimpse at microfinance in action.  Spencer Sherman, a recent college graduate from the United States, is the most recent participant in this program and is ending a seven-month stay with YOSEFO this week.  During his time here, Spencer designed a database system to help our small pilot branches keep better control of their finances.  While we will miss his presence here, we will be happy to welcome a new group of volunteers from abroad who will be arriving in our Dar Es Salaam offices this June.

March 5, 2009
While it's clear that microfinance can improve the lives of borrowers--by allowing them to diversify and expand their sources of income--YOSEFO believes microfinance can also be used as a tool to help the environment as well.  With this goal in mind, YOSEFO has begun a partnership with the Tanzania Forest Conservation Group (TFCG) to provide financial services to three communities in East Usambara (namely Kwezitu, Shamba Ng'eda, and Kuze Kibago).  Financial services are delivered through Village Savings and Loans Associations, locally known as "Benki Jamii."  YOSEFO plans to expand its outreach in the near future to include more villages around the East Usambara forest reserves.

February 24, 2009
Effective next month, YOSEFO will open a new branch in Zanzibar with Ms. Ndeu Maboja as its first manager.  The branch will be based in Gamba, North A District in the North Region of the island, and will also have an office at Mwanakwerekwe Zanzibar Town.  Currently, YOSEFO operates in seven sheia (government districts in Zanzibar), including two in Tumbatu Island, Jongowe, and Gomani.  The Zanzibar Branch provides an excellent opportunity for YOSEFO to continue its efforts to expand and serve more Tanzanian entrepeneurs.