The project

Please note: 1st principal repayment after 12 months instead of 6 months. However, the interest payments start after 6 months.

Seamstress Zakirova began her business in 2014 when she bought a sewing machine with the €180 loan she received from Oxus. Initially making national dresses at home, she expanded to decorating wedding dresses and festive wear. While still working on her own venture, she started working in a tailor shop to gain more experience and grow her skills. In 2022, she received another loan of €2,700 from Oxus, allowing her to open her first shop at the Farovon market. Customer orders from clients are made from her shop at home. With the income from her business, she supports her family and provides jobs for others. 

Microfinance institution Oxus stands out in its understanding and adaptation to Tajikistan's unique economic and social challenges. With 40% of their loans allocated to female entrepreneurs, they demonstrate a commitment to inclusive growth. Their financial products are tailored to meet local needs, featuring quick disbursement, adaptable lending, and competitive rates. This approach ensures clients like Zakirova receive support that is specifically suited to their circumstances. Oxus' dedication to the country's development is evident in its strategic focus on empowering a diverse range of entrepreneurs. By investing in Oxus, you become part of the journey of 215 Tajikistan SME entrepreneurs, contributing to the nation's progress.

What social return could your investment make?

With their presence in rural areas of Tajikistan, Oxus supports often overlooked SMEs. Not only does this enable rural communities to advance socially, but it also drives regional economic development. Besides, over 40% of their loans are dedicated to female entrepreneurs, promoting gender equality and amplifying women's roles in business.

Microfinance institutions (MFIs) like Oxus are indispensable in the local economy. They fill gaps left by traditional banking systems, ensuring that fundamental businesses and marginalised sectors get the financial support they need to grow. An investment in Oxus, therefore, resonates beyond immediate returns, planting seeds for a broader societal transformation.
 

What financial return could your investment generate? 

• Annual interest rate 5,5%
• The maturity of the loan is 24 months
• Grace period: the first repayment of your investment will be made after 12 months. After that, there will be a repayment every 6 months
• With an investment of 1,000 euros, your expected total repayment would be 1,083 euros.
• This is a local currency (LCY) project, but the exchange risk is covered by our partner TCX. Please read our blog and FAQ for further information.

The story of Oxus

Founded in 2005 by the globally recognized NGO ACTED*, Oxus has grown to be a significant player in the microfinance landscape. ACTED's commitment to socio-economic development led them to establish Oxus, ensuring financial inclusion for underserved communities. Today, ACTED remains the largest shareholder of Oxus Holding, underlining their continuous support and belief in the power of microfinance.

In its commitment to bolstering the local economy, Oxus provides loans in the region's currency, ensuring borrowers are shielded from exchange fluctuations. An average loan from Oxus to an entrepreneur is $3,000. Furthermore, their emphasis on income-generating projects underscores their dedication to sustainable community development.

Oxus in numbers

• Founded in 2005
• 27 active branches across Tajikistan
• >200 employees
• >14 000 clients

*ACTED is also a shareholder of Hands-on BV (under the brand name Lendahand). However, with a stake of only a few percent, this does not hinder us from displaying the proposition on our website. For more information, see the FAQ 'How does Lendahand address potential conflicts of interest?'