Jordan Daily – The UNRWA Microfinance Department has opened its ninth branch in Russiefa, Jordan, aiming to enhance financial inclusion for economically marginalized groups, including Palestine refugees, small business owners, women, and youth.
According to a statement , the new branch, which is strategically located and accessible via multiple means of transportation, will serve the local Russiefa community and the approximately 64,000 Palestine refugees of Marka camp. The initiative is expected to significantly reduce transactional costs for refugees who previously had to travel to Zarqa for basic services, saving them transportation costs, time, and effort.
The branch is also a green branch, using energy-saving equipment and focusing on the use of recyclable materials. It aims to improve accessibility for persons with disabilities.
The inauguration event was attended by Mr. Ben Majekodunmi, UNRWA’s Chief of Staff, Mr. Olaf Becker, Director of UNRWA Affairs in Jordan, and Mr. Victor Siriany, Chief of Microfinance Programme in Jordan, along with representatives from the Department of Palestinian Affairs, Russiefa Sub Governor, government officials, microfinance partners, Marka camp notables, and UNRWA staff.
Since its launch in Jordan in 2003, UNRWA’s Microfinance Programme has provided 180,980 loans worth a total value of 130,300,585 Jordanian Dinars. The department digitalized its services in October 2023, introducing electronic repayment channels.
