Rural Livelihoods Investment Facility (RLIF) 2023 Impact Report

RLIF 2023 Impact Report

2023 marked a pivotal year for the Rural Livelihoods Investment Facility (RLIF), now Balim Investments. This collaborative initiative between HEKS/EPER, iGravity and our new strategic partner Somaha Foundation is dedicated to empowering rural communities across Sub-Saharan Africa. Guided by our commitment to sustainable development and inclusive economic growth, the RLIF provides essential financing and business support to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the agri-food, renewable energy, water, and related sectors that bolster community resilience.

Here are some of the wins worth celebrating:

• Impact on People: RLIF-supported enterprises have directly impacted the livelihoods of over 2,000,000 people in rural communities, a significant increase from 53,555 in 2022. We have sustained 7,900 income-generating opportunities and created 1,035 jobs, resulting in improved food security for families and greater economic resilience for communities.
• Impact on Local Supply Chains and the Environment: Our investments prioritize SMEs that work directly with farmers on sustainable terms and employ environmentally friendly practices. RLIF-backed enterprises collaborate with farmer groups and cooperatives, offering training on good agricultural practices, post-harvest support, and providing stable access to market. These efforts contribute to improved resource management, a greener future for agriculture and more economically resilient communities.
• Access to Essential Goods and Services: By supporting local SMEs, RLIF has significantly contributed to the growth and diversification of rural economies. This has led to increased access to essential goods and services in under-served communities. Our initiatives include providing training for smallholder farmers and facilitating financial inflows into these communities, totaling USD 2.5 million through loans and purchases from smallholder farmers.
• Strengthening Gender Equality: Recognizing the crucial role of women in rural areas—where they comprise 43% of the agricultural workforce but have less access to resources—RLIF actively seeks to support women in rural areas and female entrepreneurs. In 2023, 50% of the people impacted by RLIF were women, and 29% of our investments were directed towards female-led businesses, fostering greater gender participation and empowerment in the agricultural sector.

These initial successes illustrate the transformative potential of RLIF. Our collaboration leverages the expertise of HEKS/EPER, iGravity and now Somaha Foundation. HEKS/EPER's longstanding presence and deep understanding of rural communities ensure that investments address specific needs and challenges. With iGravity's innovative financing experience, we are committed to scaling up our impact and reaching even more communities in 2024 and beyond.

As we transition into 2024, now under the name Balim Investments, we are excited to welcome Somaha Foundation as a key investor. Somaha Foundation's focus on strengthening local organizations and communities by increasing their independence and self-determination aligns perfectly with our mission. We plan to expand our geographic reach and explore new investment themes, with a continued focus on environmental sustainability, resiliency, gender inclusion, and well-being.

The Rural Livelihoods Investment Facility (RLIF) 2023 Impact Report is a testament to the power of collaboration in tackling rural poverty and creating a more equitable future. As we build upon these initial achievements, we remain steadfast in our pursuit of lasting impact and a vibrant future for rural Africa.

Read & Download the full report here