UBTEC, “The farmers’ bank on farmers’ terms”

The Union of Baoré Tradition of Savings and Credit, better known as UBTEC, is a microfinance institution operating primarily in rural areas. True to its slogan, “The farmers’ bank on farmers’ terms!”, it works to facilitate access to financial services tailored to the needs of rural populations. In a country where many farmers remain excluded from traditional banking services, UBTEC plays a vital role. It enables farming families to save in a secure environment, access credit and finance their agricultural or income-generating activities.

Supporting Local Collective Initiatives

UBTEC also supports Mutual Solidarity Groups (MuSo), which provide vulnerable rural women with a space for mutual support, savings and local credit.

During his presentation, Rasmané Ouedraogo discussed UBTEC’s mission and its role in strengthening financial inclusion in Burkina Faso. He also shared the challenges the institution faces in an environment marked by insecurity, population displacement and limited access to certain rural areas.

A Resilient Institution Despite a Complex Context

Despite this challenging environment, UBTEC continues its operations and supports its members. The institution now has over 55,000 members and remains committed to rural communities, particularly through its rural credit unions, savings and credit services, and its support for local community initiatives.

This meeting also provided a better understanding of UBTEC’s prospects for the coming years. The institution is committed to a development strategy, with a new business plan for the period 2025-2029.

Future-Oriented Perspectives

UBTEC’s priorities include strengthening agricultural finance, digitising services, supporting economic recovery in crisis-affected areas and developing green financing and agroecological practices.

For SOS Faim, this visit was an important opportunity for dialogue with a long-standing partner. It allowed the team to better understand the realities on the ground and the operational constraints, but also UBTEC’s resilience and daily commitment to rural communities in Burkina Faso.

A partnership built on trust

Beyond figures and programmes, this meeting underscored the importance of human connection in international solidarity partnerships.

It also confirmed the relevance of long-term support built on trust, active listening and a shared vision: enabling farming families to access appropriate financial services to strengthen their autonomy and sustainably improve their living conditions.