Bandari DT Sacco will intensify member education, strengthen grassroots engagement and promote responsible borrowing as part of a new strategy to enhance member value and drive the cooperative’s growth.
Speaking during a members’ education forum, the Sacco’s Chairman said the institution is embracing a new approach that places members at the centre of its transformation agenda, with education identified as a key pillar for sustainable growth.
“We want to change how we do business, and that change begins with educating our members,” he said.
The chairman revealed that Bandari Sacco plans to roll out constituency-based education programmes, enabling leaders and management to engage members directly in their local communities. The initiative is expected to improve financial literacy, increase participation in Sacco activities and strengthen the relationship between members and the cooperative.
“We want to take education to where our members are. We will come to the ground because we want to build our members from the grassroots,” he said.
He also urged members to make productive use of Sacco loans by investing in income-generating activities that improve their livelihoods and create long-term wealth.
According to the chairman, the Sacco’s leadership will increasingly engage members to understand how borrowed funds are being utilized, saying successful investments financed through Bandari Sacco demonstrate the positive impact of prudent borrowing.
“We want members to use loans to build businesses, educate their children and improve their lives—not simply for consumption,” he noted.
The chairman further called on members to provide honest feedback on the Sacco’s services, saying both compliments and constructive criticism are essential in improving customer experience and service delivery.
“We want to hear from our members. Tell us what we are doing well and where we need to improve so that we can grow together,” he said.
Addressing concerns raised over the safety of members’ deposits amid recent public debate, the chairman assured members that their savings remain secure and protected by law.
He dismissed speculation that Sacco deposits could be used to finance government infrastructure projects, emphasizing that the cooperative movement remains committed to safeguarding members’ funds.
“Our members’ deposits are protected. As the cooperative movement, we will continue supporting laws that strengthen the security of members’ investments and ensure their savings remain safe,” he said.
He concluded by encouraging members to remain actively involved in the affairs of the Sacco as it implements reforms aimed at delivering better services, strengthening governance and sustaining long-term growth.
