Kashongi Farmers’ SACCO launches sustainability initiative
Kashongi Farmers’ Savings and Credit Cooperative Organization (SACCO) has launched a new sustainability initiative aimed at enhancing environmental practices among its members. The initiative was unveiled during the SACCO’s 18th Annual General Meeting held yesterday at its headquarters in Kashongi Town Council,Kiruhura district
Brig. Gen. Freddy Joseph Onata, the Chief Executive Officer of Wazalendo SACCO Ltd who graced the event as the chief guest urged SACCO leaders to make strategic decisions that would facilitate significant growth within the organization. “It is essential to evaluate the outcomes of your actions and their impacts,” he stated. “To be a sustainable SACCO, you need to create a positive impact that encourages members to engage in productive activities.”
The delegates of Kashongi Farmers’ SACCO in a meeting yesterday
Brig. Gen. Onata emphasized the importance of mobilizing members to save their own money, highlighting that sustaining financial benefits within the cooperative is crucial. “Instead of surrendering interest payments to commercial lenders, let that interest serve your members,” he urged.
Charles Nateekateka, the Board Chairman, shared a positive outlook on the SACCO’s progress, noting that Kashongi Farmers SACCO has employed 51 staff members, 40 of whom hold university degrees. “This qualified team is well-positioned to drive the development of the SACCO,” he said.
Nateekateka also reported impressive financial figures from the last financial year revealing that the SACCO boasts nearly 20,000 members, UGX 2.6 billion in savings, UGX 1.3 billion in fixed savings, a share capital of UGX 2.9 billion, a loan portfolio of UGX 9.3 billion, and a profit of UGX 512 million. He encouraged the public to join the SACCO for shared growth and development.
In her remarks, Rose Twinamatsiko, the General Manager, elaborated on the purpose of the sustainability initiative. She highlighted the numerous challenges facing members in the Nyabushozi region, including drought, low rainfall, disease outbreaks and issues stemming from environmental degradation. “This initiative aims to help our members revive nature and address these pressing concerns,” she explained.
The launch of the sustainability initiative marks a significant step forward for Kashongi Farmers SACCO as it seeks to empower its members while promoting environmentally friendly practices in the community.
