UGANDA COOPERATIVE ALLIANCE BOOSTS SACCO GOVERNANCE IN KIGEZI SUB-REGION

KABALE, May 28, 2025 – The Uganda Cooperative Alliance (UCA) successfully conducted a two-day capacity-building training for leaders of Savings and Credit Cooperative Organizations (SACCOs) under the Kigezi Cooperatives Union. The training, held on May 23–24 at Kirigime Guest House in Kabale, convened 64 participants from SACCOs across the Kigezi sub-region.

The initiative follows a nationwide capacity needs assessment conducted by UCA across 135 districts and 3,710 cooperatives. The findings revealed widespread challenges in governance, financial management, member engagement, legal frameworks, and access to finance.

In response, UCA designed targeted interventions, including regional trainings to build leadership capacity and improve SACCO operations. The Kigezi training focused on enhancing governance, promoting sustainable financial practices, and preparing SACCOs to engage with emerging opportunities—such as investing in the proposed Uganda Cooperative Bank and accessing green financing through Uganda Development Bank (UDB).

During the training, UCA’s General Secretary emphasized the need for improved compliance, professional management, and active participation in the cooperative movement’s revival. He also clarified regulatory roles, highlighting that while UMRA provides a no-objection letter, licensing authority lies with the Bank of Uganda. SACCOs were urged to prepare for taxation compliance while continuing to advocate for tax exemptions.

Participants were introduced to new strategic directions, including the planned establishment of a cooperative-owned insurance company and academic partnerships for cooperative studies. The session on governance and risk management reinforced the board’s role in policy oversight, financial sustainability, and institutional accountability.

Key resolutions from the meeting included renewed commitment to the Kigezi Cooperatives Union, harmonization of SACCO bylaws, contributions to boost union capital, and increased investment in the forthcoming Cooperative Bank. SACCOs also resolved to support CIC Insurance and lobby for a tax exemption extension beyond 2027.

The training marks a significant step in strengthening Uganda’s cooperative sector, positioning SACCOs to play a more effective role in community development, financial inclusion, and national economic growth.