A wholly owned government association that operates the mortgage-backed securities program designed to facilitate the flow of capital into the housing industry. Ginnie Mae-approved private institutions issue mortgage-backed securities with payments that are guaranteed even if borrowers or issuers default on their obligations. Ginnie Mae was created in 1968 when the Federal National Mortgage Association was partitioned into two parts. Formerly called Government National Mortgage Association. See also Ginnie Mae pass through, mobile home certificate.