Savings and Credit Cooperative Societies (Saccos) are being encouraged to adopt strategic planning as a critical tool for their growth and sustainability.

Cyrus Nyabicha, Kisii County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Trade, Tourism, and Marketing, emphasised the importance of strategic roadmaps in helping Saccos navigate challenging economic environments.

With many cooperative societies struggling to stay afloat, he noted that a clear, actionable plan is essential for guiding operations, attracting investment, and ensuring long-term viability.

According to Nyabicha, Saccos must not only encourage members to save but also promote investment in value chains, which can significantly enhance both individual and collective financial well-being.

“The county is giving saccos an enabling environment to do business. Societies should mobilise resources and strategise to grow financially,” he said. The ultimate goal, the county executive added, is to turn Saccos into powerful economic engines that uplift communities, especially the youth.

Nyabicha, who was joined by several key figures in the Sacco movement, called on young people to take advantage of the opportunities presented by Saccos—to join, borrow, invest, and in the process, create employment and become self-reliant. Asha Moronya, Chairman of Gusii Youth Bunge Sacco, said the new Strategic Plan focuses on several pillars aimed at improving Sacco’s performance.