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Preliminary studies: Focus group discussions in the community identified difficulties in paying for transport as a major barrier to seeking and reaching emergency care for obstetric complications. Interventions: After emergency obstetric services in local health facilities had been upgraded, the clans in Ekpoma were mobilized in 1995 to set up emergency loan funds for women with complications. Funds were managed entirely by the clans, with ongoing monitoring and supervision by project staff. Two percent simple interest was charged. Results: Of the 13 clans contacted, 12 successfully launched loan funds. Total donations amounted to US$793, of which fourfifths were contributed by the community. In the 1st year of the operation, 456 women/families requested loans (ranging from US$7 to US$15), and 380 (83%) were granted. Threehundred and fiftyfour (93%) loans were repaid in full. In addition to being used …