The DOAF Credit Union was founded to address the fact that only 19% of the population uses formal financial services and products in The Gambia, and the majority of women remain do not use banks to save which results in them often failing to accrue income . Commercial banks charge high fees and loan rates. This presents a great barrier for women to achieve financial stability or mobility.

In 2021 we registered with the National Association of Cooperative Credit Unions (NACCUG) and with their guidance and structure began the journey of establishing an all-women credit union. The model gives members the power to control their own finances by encouraging thrift savings and the wise use of credit under reasonable and fair interest rates.

DOAF maintain professional and transparent management of the union. The members elected a board of 7 executives who represent them, and all staff from DOAF also invest in the credit union operating in accordance with the guiding policies.