In East Africa, Uganda and Rwanda have also made strides in CRM practices within their MFIs. In Uganda, MFIs have increasingly
adopted CRM strategies that prioritize credit risk management and regulatory compliance, which have been instrumental in maintaining
their financial stability despite the challenges posed by economic and political uncertainties (Kadima, 2023). Rwanda, on the other hand,
has focused on integrating CRM into the overall governance of MFIs, emphasizing risk management in strategic planning and decision-
making processes (Ngabonziza & Mugiraneza, 2022). These practices have not only enhanced the financial performance of Rwandan
MFIs but also increased their credibility and trustworthiness among stakeholders.
In Tanzania, the application of CRM practices has become increasingly important as MFIs face challenges such as credit and liquidity
risks. Tanzanian MFIs have adopted client risk assessment models and portfolio diversification strategies as part of their CRM efforts,
which have been pivotal in enhancing their financial resilience. The focus on managing these specific risks has enabled Tanzanian MFIs
to improve their financial performance and sustain their operations amidst economic fluctuations (Ngowi & Nkwabi, 2020).
In Kenya, CRM practices have gained significant attention due to their impact on the financial performance of MFIs. A study by Omondi
and Muturi (2020) highlighted that MFIs in Kenya that have implemented comprehensive CRM frameworks, especially those focusing
on credit and operational risks, have experienced improved financial outcomes. The integration of digital platforms for risk management
has further enhanced these institutions' ability to manage risks effectively, contributing to their overall financial sustainability.
Furthermore, a study by Karanja and Ndirangu (2021) emphasized the role of operational risk management in improving the financial
performance of Kenyan MFIs. Their findings revealed that MFIs that adopted robust operational risk management practices, such as
internal controls and risk assessment protocols, were better positioned to navigate financial challenges and maintain profitability.
Additional research by Wambua and Muriuki (2020) explored the relationship between market risk management and financial
performance in Kenyan MFIs. Their study found that MFIs that actively managed market risks through diversification strategies and
market analysis tools achieved greater financial stability and growth.
Similarly, Kamau and Ochieng (2019) examined the impact of liquidity risk management on the financial performance of Kenyan MFIs.
Their research demonstrated that MFIs with effective liquidity risk management strategies, including maintaining adequate cash reserves
and diversifying funding sources, were more resilient during economic downturns and exhibited stronger financial performance.
Lastly, a study by Mwangi and Wanjiru (2021) on the governance and risk management practices in Kenyan MFIs highlighted that
institutions with strong governance structures that integrate risk management at the board level are more likely to achieve sustainable
financial performance. Their research underscored the importance of aligning risk management with overall corporate governance to
ensure long-term financial viability.
These studies collectively underscore the critical role of CRM practices in enhancing the financial performance of MFIs in Kenya. By
adopting comprehensive risk management strategies that address credit, operational, market, and liquidity risks, Kenyan MFIs have
improved their financial stability and sustainability in a dynamic economic environment.
1.2 Statement of the problem
Despite the critical role microfinance institutions (MFIs) play in promoting financial inclusion and economic development, especially in
rural areas, their sustainability and financial performance remain a significant concern in Kenya. The region, which is characterized by a
high concentration of MFIs, faces unique challenges that hinder the effectiveness of these institutions. One of the most pressing issues is
the inadequate implementation of corporate risk management (CRM) practices, which directly impacts the financial stability of MFIs
(Omondi & Muturi, 2020).
Research has shown that many MFIs in Kenya struggle with high levels of credit risk, stemming from the inability to effectively assess
and manage borrower risk profiles. This has led to increased loan defaults, which in turn erode the financial base of these institutions
(Karanja & Ndirangu, 2021). Despite the existence of CRM frameworks, the application of these practices in Busia County is often
inconsistent and lacks the rigor required to mitigate such risks effectively. As a result, many MFIs in the region face liquidity challenges,
which further compromise their ability to sustain operations and serve their clientele.
Additionally, credit risks in Kenya’s MFIs are exacerbated by the limited adoption of technological innovations and inadequate staff
training on risk management practices. Studies have indicated that many MFIs in the region are still reliant on manual processes for risk
assessment and management, which are prone to human error and inefficiencies (Wambua & Muriuki, 2020). This lack of modernization
not only hampers the efficiency of risk management but also increases the operational costs, thereby affecting the overall financial
performance of these institutions.
Moreover, market risks, including competition and regulatory changes, pose significant threats to the financial performance of MFIs in
Kenya. The region has seen a proliferation of financial service providers, including commercial banks and mobile money platforms,
which have encroached on the traditional customer base of MFIs. Without robust market risk management strategies, many MFIs find it
challenging to maintain their market share and profitability (Mwangi & Wanjiru, 2021). The cumulative effect of these challenges is a
declining financial performance, which threatens the long-term sustainability of MFIs in Kenya and their ability to fulfil their mission of
providing financial services to underserved populations.