We marked another important milestone for our SACCO as we successfully held a Member Education Forum for our entrepreneur members. The event brought together members, the Board, management, and key stakeholders with one shared goal: to equip members with the knowledge and skills needed to build stronger businesses while strengthening our cooperative.The forum was insightful, engaging, and inspiring, with practical lessons that members can immediately apply in their businesses and financial lives.
Opening Remarks by the Chairman
The event was officially opened by our Chairman, Mr. Francis M Kithae who welcomed members and emphasized the importance of continuous learning within the cooperative movement. He encouraged members to actively participate, embrace innovation, and take advantage of the opportunities provided by the SACCO to grow their businesses and improve their financial well-being.He reaffirmed the Board’s commitment to ensuring the SACCO remains responsive to members’ needs while promoting transparency, accountability, and sustainable growth.
Understanding Cooperatives: Learning from the Ministry of Cooperatives
Mr Dennis Muthoka , a representative from the Ministry of Cooperatives, delivered an informative session on cooperative governance and regulations.Members were taken through:
- The principles and rules that guide cooperative societies.
- The Cooperative Acts and regulations governing SACCO operations.
- The shared responsibility each stakeholder has in building a strong, accountable, and successful SACCO.
- The importance of active member participation in ensuring good governance and long-term sustainability.
The session reminded members that a cooperative succeeds when everyone understands and fulfills their role.
CEO’s Session: Building Financially Empowered Members
The CEO,Mr. Michael Mutua, led an engaging member education session under the theme:
“Building a Strong Digital and Sustainable Cooperative.”
The presentation focused on improving members’ financial literacy and strengthening their businesses through sound financial management. Key topics included:
- Developing and working within a realistic budget.
- Separating personal finances from business finances.
- The importance of consistent saving and responsible borrowing.
- Keeping accurate financial records.
- Managing cash flow effectively.
- Identifying and preventing financial fraud.
- Preparing financially for retirement.
- Monitoring business performance using simple financial reports.
Members gained practical tips on making informed financial decisions, embracing digital financial solutions, and building businesses that can thrive in today’s changing economic environment.
Exploring SACCO Loan Products
Our Credit Manager, Ann, introduced members to the various SACCO loan products available to support different financial needs.The session explained how members can access affordable financing to:
- Expand businesses.
- Invest in productive assets.
- Meet personal financial goals.
- Improve their overall financial stability.
Members also had the opportunity to ask questions and receive guidance on selecting loan products that best suit their individual needs.
A Powerful Member Testimony
One of the highlights of the day came from Mr Boniface Ndunda, of Kish funeral services, who shared his inspiring journey with the SACCO.He testified that through the SACCO’s financial support, he has successfully acquired three vehicles, significantly expanding his business operations and improving service delivery.His story served as a powerful reminder of the life-changing impact that cooperative financing can have when members save consistently and borrow responsibly.
Together We Build a Stronger Cooperative
The Member Education Forum reinforced the value of continuous learning, financial discipline, and active participation in cooperative affairs. As entrepreneurs, our members left the event better equipped to manage their businesses, make sound financial decisions, and take full advantage of the opportunities available through the SACCO.
We extend our sincere appreciation to our Chairman, the County Government Cooperative Officer, our CEO, Credit Manager Ann, and every member who participated and contributed to making the event a great success.Together, we continue to build a stronger, digitally empowered, and sustainable cooperative that transforms lives and supports the growth of our members’ businesses.