Lengo Deposit-Taking (DT) SACCO has recorded steady financial growth and operational gains, even as cooperative leaders call for stronger governance, prudent financial management, and innovation to sustain its upward trajectory.
The SACCO’s performance came into focus during the 2026 Annual Delegates Meeting held on April 11 at Malindi Pear Hotel, where county officials and sector leaders used the platform to both review progress and outline the priorities needed to secure its future.
Financial results presented at the meeting showed that total assets grew to KSh 646 million, deposits rose to KSh 407 million, and the loan book expanded to KSh 465 million. Revenue increased to KSh 143 million, reflecting double-digit growth and improved efficiency.
Kilifi Chief Officer for Cooperative Development, MD Zamzam, described the SACCO as “a force to be reckoned with,” pointing to its strong capital position and improved cost management.
“It shows you are learning to do more with less, ensuring more value goes back to the member,” she said.
Kilifi Cooperative Director Mary Mukare also commended the SACCO’s performance and adherence to regulatory requirements, noting that structured forums like Annual Delegates Meetings are essential for accountability.
“Annual Delegates Meetings are a key pillar of cooperative governance as they promote transparency, accountability and member participation in decision making,” she said.
Despite the strong performance, leaders cautioned against complacency. Zamzam highlighted emerging risks, including non-performing loans, rising impairment provisions, and potential liquidity pressure due to faster loan growth compared to deposits.
“These are not weaknesses but signals for strategic action. They must not be ignored,” she warned.
Mukare similarly urged SACCOs to balance returns with sustainability, cautioning against competition driven solely by high dividends.
Assistant Director for Cooperatives James Mwasi called for a shift from rapid expansion to efficiency and value creation as the SACCO matures.
“We are now past the ‘growth for the sake of growth’ stage. The focus must be quality over quantity,” Mwasi said.
Drawing from his 15-year involvement with the SACCO, he pointed to key milestones such as the introduction of FOSA in 2010, which helped the institution meet regulatory thresholds and laid the foundation for its current growth.
“We had to innovate to survive. That strategic decision ensured compliance and set the stage for the progress you are seeing today,” he said.
Mwasi urged the SACCO to prioritize cost efficiency, maintain a healthy loan portfolio, and enhance member value, particularly for long-serving members nearing retirement.
“The future of the SACCO lies not just in attracting members but in keeping them satisfied and engaged,” he added.
Governance, Reforms and Technology.
All speakers emphasized the importance of strong governance and active delegate oversight in sustaining performance. Zamzam reminded delegates of their responsibility in shaping the SACCO’s direction.
“You are the custodians of the members’ dreams. The next phase of Lengo DT SACCO depends on the decisions you make today,” she said.
The leaders also pointed to ongoing reforms in the cooperative sector aimed at strengthening regulation and improving member protection. Mwasi encouraged stakeholders to actively participate in shaping these reforms, warning against misinformation.
“In Kenya, our strength lies in the ‘S’, the Savings. Removing it could be retrogressive,” he said, referring to proposals to rebrand SACCOs as credit unions.
Meanwhile, both Zamzam and Mukare called for increased adoption of financial technology to improve efficiency and expand access to services.
“Let a member in the furthest corner access services as easily as someone in Malindi,” Zamzam said.
County Support.
The Kilifi County Government reiterated its commitment to supporting cooperatives through policy and financial initiatives, including the Wezesha Fund and plans to establish a Cooperative Enterprise Fund targeting key sectors such as dairy, mango, cashew nuts, and coconut farming.
Even as the SACCO marked 50 years of existence, leaders emphasized that its future success will depend on how well it consolidates its gains, strengthens governance, and adapts to a changing financial environment.
With a growing membership base, expanding financial portfolio, and renewed focus on efficiency and innovation, Lengo DT SACCO is positioning itself for sustained growth in the years ahead.
