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Islamic Microfinance in Afghanistan: Market Assessment & Strategic Opportunity
- October 10, 2025
- Posted by: HBC Insights
- Categories: Case Studies, Central Asia, Competitive Research, Financial Services Consulting, Global & Emerging Markets, Policy & Economic Impact, Research & Insights, South Asia
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Afghanistan’s microfinance sector contracted 91% between 2021-2023. Only 10% of the population has access to formal financial services. Yet amidst economic collapse—27% GDP contraction, $9 billion frozen central bank assets, and severe deflation—a counterintuitive signal emerged: Islamic microfinance products recorded 100% repayment rates.
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Sustaining Health Services: What Drives Community Trust and Long-Term Utilization in Fragile Contexts
- June 12, 2025
- Posted by: HBC Insights
- Categories: Case Studies, Competitive Research, Disability Inclusion, Healthcare & Life Sciences, Innovation, Research & Insights
Health service programs in fragile contexts often struggle to move beyond donor dependence to genuine community adoption and sustainability. Our evaluation examined how an integrated health service program builds community trust, achieves service utilization, and establishes conditions for long-term sustainability across multiple operational settings.
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From 1,000 to 500,000: When Demand Redefines a Training Program
- December 31, 2024
- Posted by: HBC Insights
- Categories: Case Studies, Central Asia, Digital & Technology, Innovation, Women's Empowerment
A training initiative designed for 1,000 learners unexpectedly reached over 500,000 youth, reshaping expectations and outcomes. With 300+ trained participants, 37% learning improvement, and 25+ employment placements, this UNDP-supported program demonstrates how strong demand, employer engagement, and hybrid delivery models can scale youth skills development in Afghanistan.
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Emergency Response That Reaches the Most Vulnerable
- September 20, 2024
- Posted by: HBC Insights
- Categories: Case Studies, Competitive Research, Disability Inclusion, Innovation, International, Research & Insights, South Asia
This evaluation of a €4.5M emergency response program shows what actually works in fragile contexts. Across six provinces, the program achieved a 94% delivery rate and intentionally reached 33% persons with disabilities through protection-focused design. Our mixed-methods assessment reveals the operational choices that drove exceptional results.
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AQMesh Air Quality Monitoring System
- December 9, 2019
- Posted by: HBC Insights
- Category: Case Studies
AQMesh offers a state-of-the-art air quality monitoring system with MCERTS certification for PM2.5 and PM10. It is ideal for various applications including fenceline monitoring, industrial emissions, and urban air quality assessments.