About Us
Akhuwat’s initiatives include interest-free microfinance, fee-free quality education, and inclusion of the most marginalized segments of society.
Akhuwat was established with the hope that the privileged among us can empower those who are underprivileged and thus, practice Mawakhat (solidarity) to alleviate poverty and build a bond of brotherhood between those who have, and those who have not.
Akhuwat is Committed to Changing
Lives
Mission
To alleviate poverty by empowering socially and economically marginalized families through interest-free microfinance and by harnessing entrepreneurial potential, capacity building, social guidance and fee-free education.
Vision
A poverty-free society built on the principles of compassion and equity.
Objective
Our Identity
Akhuwat embodies Mawakhat (solidarity) as a vision towards a poverty-free society based on the values of solidarity, equity, and compassion. Akhuwat values financial inclusion, education, and healthcare as fundamental human rights.
Our Story
Before 2001, Dr. Muhammad Amjad Saqib was affiliated with the Punjab Rural Support Program (PRSP) where he worked with marginalized families and witnessed their struggles firsthand. Learning from his experiences, he founded Akhuwat and decided to dedicate his life to providing support to those in need.
Our Work
Akhuwat offers interest-free loans such as Qarz-e-Hassan to financially disadvantaged families and individuals. Akhuwat provides three types of loans; enterprise, agriculture, and housing. Beyond the realm of microfinance, Akhuwat also works in the areas of education, vocational trainings, transgender support, and disaster relief.
Our Philosophy
Akhuwat derives its philosophy from Mawakhat-e-Medina, a story of compassion and brotherhood. In 622 CE, the Muhajireen (Immigrants) escaped their hometown Mecca due to religious persecution and fled to Medina leaving behind all their belongings. Prophet Muhammad (Peace be Upon him) called on the Ansars (helpers) of Medina to share their wealth with the Muhajirs (immigrants) and treat them like brothers, offering them support in their time of difficulty. The event was a historic moment in history and laid the foundation of the enduring tradition of Mawakhat: solidarity and social responsibility towards one’s fellow citizens.
Although Akhuwat derives its inspiration from the Islamic tradition of Mawakhat, it does not discriminate based on religion, sect, caste, color, creed, or gender. Through all its programs, Akhuwat propagates inclusion, social entrepreneurship, compassion, and growth.
Our Principles
Akhuwat evolved as an organic entity through a process of action research. The following major principles were adopted with time.
Interest-free microfinance
Akhuwat provides loans with zero interest based on the belief that poverty cannot be eradicated by charging interest and doing business with the poor.
Places of Worship
Akhuwat operates in places of worship including, mosques, churches, and temples to organize loan disbursement ceremonies. The use of religious places ensures transparency, participation, and accountability while also minimizing operational costs and generating goodwill.
Volunteerism
Akhuwat relies upon the passion, dedication, and zeal of its volunteer team who dedicate their time, talent, and resources towards the vision of Akhuwat.
Policy of Non-Discrimination
Akhuwat believes in an inclusive society without any discrimination based on caste, color, creed, gender, politics, or faith. Akhuwat is a nonpolitical organization working toward the ultimate objective of a poverty-free Pakistan.