Kyamuhunga People’s SACCO: 25 Years of Transforming Western Uganda Communities

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Communities in Western Uganda are celebrating a significant milestone as the Kyamuhunga People’s SACCO (KYAPS) marks its 25th anniversary. Over the past quarter-century, KYAPS has played a pivotal role in uplifting the region’s economy by providing affordable loans that have enabled members to start small businesses, improve household incomes, and transform their lives.

At the silver jubilee celebration, held with much fanfare, Paul Kahigi, the SACCO’s Chairperson, highlighted the organization’s impact on the youth.

“We have seen a tremendous shift in the lives of our young people, especially through the Bodaboda loan scheme,” Kahigi shared.

“These loans have not only provided employment for the youth but have also empowered them to support their families. Many are now able to pay school fees for their children, something that was previously a struggle,” he added.

Among those benefiting from the SACCO’s support is Jackson, a Bodaboda rider in Kyamuhunga. Grateful for the opportunity, he recounted how his life has changed since acquiring a loan from KYAPS to purchase a motorcycle.

“Before joining the SACCO, I was struggling to make ends meet,” Jackson said adding that “But with their help, I was able to buy a Bodaboda, and now I can provide for my family. I have a stable income, and my children are in school. KYAPS has truly been a blessing.”

Johnbosco Atwizukire, the General Manager of KYAPS, also shared the impressive growth the SACCO has experienced over the years.

“We started small, but today we boast a membership of over 50,000, a share capital of 9 billion UGX, a loan portfolio of 35 billion UGX, and savings of 15 billion UGX,” Atwizukire proudly announced. “This growth is not just about numbers; it reflects our commitment to financial inclusion and the trust our members have placed in us.”

The impact of KYAPS has not gone unnoticed by local leaders. Atuhire Robert, the Resident District Commissioner of Bushenyi District, praised the SACCO for its efforts in alleviating poverty. “KYAPS has been instrumental in supporting the active poor in our communities,” Atuhire remarked. “Through value addition initiatives, they have helped families increase their earnings, thereby driving the fight against poverty.”

Hon. Annet Katusiime Mugisha, the Women Member of Parliament for Bushenyi District, served as the chief guest at the event, representing President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni. She commended the SACCO’s leadership for their dedication to community transformation. “You have touched the lives of many in this region,” Hon. Mugisha noted. “Your work has added immense value to the community, and we are grateful.”

She also called upon the SACCO’s leaders to remain steadfast in their mission. “To achieve even greater success, you must be self-driven, act as role models, and work together as a team,” Hon. Mugisha urged. “Cohesion and focus in decision-making are essential as you continue to pursue your common goal of uplifting this community.”

As the Kyamuhunga People’s SACCO looks to the future, its leaders and members are determined to build on their successes and continue driving positive change in Western Uganda. The story of KYAPS is a testament to the power of community-driven initiatives in transforming lives, one loan at a time.