SAFCO Microfinance Company Recognized with “Excellence Award for Islamic Microfinance in Pakistan” at the 11th International Retail Banking Awards 2025

Hyderabad: SAFCO Microfinance Company Limited (SMCL) has been honored with the prestigious “Excellence Award – Islamic Microfinance in Pakistan” at the 11th International Retail Banking Awards (IRBA) 2025, held during the International Conference on Islamic Banking & Finance.

According to a statement issued by Safco Microfinance Company this distinguished recognition celebrates SMCL’s Yaqeen Islamic Finance for breaking barriers in ethical lending and expanding access to Halal, Shariah-compliant microfinance solutions for underserved and financially excluded communities across Pakistan. The award acknowledges SMCL’s leadership in strengthening the Islamic microfinance sector through disaster-resilient, innovative, client-centric, and socially responsible Islamic finance models.

Over the past years, SMCL has significantly expanded its Islamic microfinance outreach, enhanced its Shariah governance framework, introduced need-based and inclusive Islamic financial products, and strengthened technology-driven processes to improve customer experience. SMCL’s Yaqeen Islamic Finance has played a catalytic role in ensuring that low-income households—particularly women and small entrepreneurs—can access dignified, Halal, and affordable financing options.

Speaking at the ceremony, Dr. Suleman G. Abro, Founder & Group President of SAFCO and recipient of the award on behalf of SMCL, expressed his gratitude:

“We are deeply honored to receive this global recognition at the IRBA Awards 2025. This achievement reflects SMCL’s unwavering commitment to promoting ethical, inclusive, and Shariah-compliant financial services for those who need them most. Our Yaqeen Islamic Finance model demonstrates that Islamic microfinance can uplift communities, strengthen resilience, and open new pathways for sustainable livelihoods. I dedicate this award to our clients, partners, and the dedicated SAFCO team working tirelessly to make a meaningful impact.”

On this occasion, Syed Sajjad Ali Shah, Managing Director, SMCL, along with senior members of the leadership team, were present to represent the organization.

He shared:

“This award reinforces our mission to build a responsible, client-focused Islamic microfinance system that fosters trust, dignity, and financial empowerment. We will continue to introduce innovative, Shariah-compliant solutions that support entrepreneurship, women’s economic inclusion, and climate resilience across Pakistan.”

The Islamic Retail Banking Awards, powered by the globally renowned Cambridge IFA, recognize leading institutions and individuals contributing significantly to the development and advancement of Islamic retail banking worldwide. This award further strengthens SMCL’s position as a national leader in Islamic microfinance and underscores its contributions to ethical finance and sustainable development.

SMCL remains committed to expanding modern, Shariah-compliant microfinance solutions that promote financial inclusion, enhance community resilience, and foster long-term socio-economic growth across Pakistan.