SACCOS Program

Initially, ten SACCOS groups were established from existing Bethania women groups. In the same year, the SACCOS Support Unit (SSU) was established in the diocese to mobilize, sensitize, organize, educate, and advise people on the establishment of SACCOS within the area of operations.

The main goal is to contribute in enabling SACCOS groups in rural areas to strengthen sustainable development through the establishment of financial services at the grassroots level under the umbrella of one micro-financial institution.

Today ELCT/NWD has 42 SACCOS units spread across the nine diocesan districts, with both rural and urban/sub-urban representation. Some are already advanced enough to provide front office services, including mini-banking in rural areas.

All SACCOS are registered under the Government Cooperative Societies law and continue to expand financial access, accountability, and economic opportunity across the community.

Achievements

• Operating SACCOS in positive conduct according to government law.
• Greater transparency through SSU inspection work.
• Employment created through projects financed by SACCOS loans.
• School fees supported through accessible loans.
• Women empowered to control and manage their own accounts.
• Financial services brought closer to communities at lower cost.

Challenges

• Lack of business skills among some members.
• Low loan portfolio due to limited capital.
• Membership still low compared to total population.
• Ongoing capacity building is needed as operations grow.

Future Plan

• Continue efforts to eradicate poverty through the SACCOS Support Unit.
• Bring all SACCOS groups under one Micro Finance Institution (MFI).