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In 1990, the Government of Senegal implemented, with World Bank support, a technical assistance project for cooperative banking operations  ( A.T.O.B.M.S ) « aimed at identifying and setting conditions for facilitating the emergence and development of a cooperative finance system, private and autonomous, which is both property of its participants and offers all guarantees of sound management ». The work carried out by the ATOBMS has facilitated development of a draft framework agreement to which BCEAO has largely contributed by putting in place in June 1992 a Program of Support to the Regulation of Savings and Loan Cooperatives (PARMEC).   

DCG Mali’s members initiated various savings and loan schemes aimed at addressing the precarious situation of marginalized populations by promoting development and consolidation of their economic activities. They appealed to the services of two consultants to conduct a study on legislation, the scope of its application and its effects on the different forms of savings and loan in Mali. The overall objective of the study is to permit to DCG Mali member organizations to understand the impact of ongoing legislation on their current organizational policies and existing articulations. This overall objective comprises the following sub-objectives:

1. Identify countries which are located in the Sahel and the West African region and which are affected by legislation on micro-finance that is currently applicable to Mali. 
2. Choose a representative sample of countries for a review of literature about their experience with the legislation mentioned above. 
3. Sponsor meetings with government representatives, donors and NGOs (mainly Norwegian funded programs) in Mali in order to assess the current situation and the perspectives of the different financial products (loan, savings, insurance, etc.)
4. Assess the future possibilities of achievement of financial self-sufficiency and entry into poor communities. 
5. Assess NGOs possibilities in engaging in micro-finance activities in CFA Franc Zone according to the arrangements of legislation in force.

Produce a report comprising case studies and a synthesis report comparing and contrasting the experiences of NGOs with legislation in each of the countries represented and advising organizations affiliated to DCG Mali on an appropriate action plan.