SIMPSON M
Delegates and staff of Kajara People’s SACCO Limited were yesterday urged to remain vigilant in the management of their SACCO and actively participate in key decision-making processes.
The remarks were made by Robert Asiimwe, the Senior Institutional Development Officer with Uganda Cooperatives Alliance, during a one-day Delegates Conference held at Rwamugyenyi Heritage Hotel in Rwashamiire Town Council.
Mr. Asiimwe explained that the training aimed to help delegates understand the SACCO business model, enhance their knowledge of SACCO structures, and build their capacity to support SACCO growth by identifying and addressing members’ needs.
He further noted that participants were introduced to strategies for managing members’ expectations and emphasized the importance of leaders and delegates understanding their roles in driving the SACCO’s progress.
Mr. Asiimwe cautioned that many SACCOs in Uganda have collapsed due to poor management, stressing that it is the responsibility of SACCO members and staff to ensure the sustainability of their institutions. He also encouraged SACCOs to adopt the delegate system and train their representatives, noting that this approach saves time and reduces expenses.
General Wilz Byarugaba, the Board Chairperson of Kajara People’s SACCO, commended the delegates for attending in large numbers. He emphasized that the training focused on the cooperative identity and highlighted the critical role of members as the cornerstone of SACCO sustainability.
General Byarugaba encouraged members to utilize the SACCO’s services by saving and borrowing, thereby addressing poverty in their households. He expressed disappointment that, despite having a portfolio of UGX 3 billion and 6,000 members, fewer than 1,000 members have taken loans.
He urged delegates to educate members in their communities about the benefits of saving and borrowing through the SACCO to foster growth and development.
Mr. Usufu Akamukwasa, the General Manager of Kajara People’s SACCO, applauded the SACCO leadership for prioritizing the training of members, delegates, management, and leaders. He stated that this investment in capacity building is reflected in the SACCO’s commendable performance.
Mr. Akamukwasa praised the SACCO board for initiating the training and encouraged participants to share the knowledge acquired with other members to maximize its impact.
With 23 years of service, Kajara People’s SACCO has significantly transformed lives in the region. It operates its headquarters in Rwashamiire and has branches in Ntungamo, Kiyenje, Bwanga, and Kafunjo Mirama.
