To enhance the operations and effectiveness of Umurenge SACCOs in Rwanda, a multi-pronged approach is being implemented. These strategies focus on improving their financial sustainability, service delivery, and overall impact on local communities. According to the Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning (MINECOFIN), the automation of 416 Umurenge SACCOs in April this year has laid the foundation for the consolidation of Umurenge SACCOs into District SACCOs (D-SACCOs), which will eventually lead to the establishment of a cooperative bank. ALSO READ: Umurenge SACCOs fully automated paving way for creation of Rwanda’s cooperative bank Speaking to The New Times, Viviane Cyuzuzo of SACCO Kungahara, in Gakenke District, said that the consolidation of Umurenge SACCOs will enable more citizens to save, access credit for various business ventures, thereby empowering them to invest and lift themselves financially. We used to see banks and other financial institutions primarily concentrated in urban areas, with limited presence in rural regions. The consolidation of Umurenge SACCOs will help bridge this gap. Aime Fidele Ndahayo, the Manager of Rusororo SACCO in Gasabo District, highlights the transformative impact automation has on the institution provided that since the automated system was introduced. He said automation has lead improvements in efficiency, transparency, and sustainability. “Automation allows our SACCO to operate more efficiently, improve service quality, and expand our member base. Our impressive membership growth reaching 11,000 members is a clear indication we are meeting the evolving needs of our community by providing seamless and reliable services,” he said. Ndahayo emphasized that operations before digitization were characterized by slower, less efficient processes, greater risks of errors and fraud, and limited accessibility and service offerings. ALSO READ: What automation of Umurenge SACCOs means for members The introduction of digital solutions has addressed many of these challenges, enabling SACCOs to operate more efficiently, improve financial inclusion, and provide a wider range of services to members, he said. For decades, SACCOs have been a vital part of Rwanda's financial landscape, playing a key role in fostering financial inclusion, particularly in rural areas. According to MINECOFIN, this process will be complemented by deployment of mobile banking systems across all SACCO branches, ensuring greater accessibility and convenience for members, especially in remote areas. Among other future plans include D-SACCOs purchasing shares in the Cooperative Bank, which will further enhance the financial capacity and sustainability of the SACCO system. This move is intended to foster strategic linkages between the SACCOs and the Cooperative Bank, enabling them to offer advanced financial services to their members. By addressing the challenges they face through training, improved governance, technology adoption, and strategic partnerships, SACCOs can strengthen their operations, better serve their members, and contribute to Rwanda's broader development goals.
