NCBA has today hosted its annual Sacco Banking Customer Empowerment forum at Serena Hotel, Nairobi, bringing leaders across Kenyan’s cooperative movement. The forum focused on addressing governance, sustainability and innovation within the SACCO sector, a critical pillar of Kenyan’s financial inclusion.
The event forms part of the ongoing NCBA’s SACCO empowerment series designed to equip leaders with knowledge, tools and peer driven insights to strengthen their institutions. It featured high impact discussions on governance, digitalization, and risk management which offered SACCO leaders practical insights for transforming in pace with shifting regulatory landscapes and mitigating operational risks within a fast-digitizing landscape. Building on the momentum of previous forums which explored “Growing Membership among Gen Z” and “Navigating Cyber security” the 2025 edition focused on Governance, a timely and critical issue shaping the future of the SACCO ecosystem in Kenya.
Enhancing Governance for SACCO Sustainability
With over 6 million members and assets exceeding over I trillion, SACCOs stand as pillars of community empowerment and financial accessibilities. However, according to the recent reports from the Sacco Societies Regulatory Authority (SASRA), SACCOs lose over 3 billion annually due to weak governance framework, fraud, poor oversight and weak internal controls, highlighting the urgency of reform and innovation.
Representing the Cabinet Secretary for Co-operatives and MSME Development, David Obonyo Co-operative Commissioner highlighted on the importance of creating a thriving, transparent and technology driven SACCO ecosystem. SACCOs are not just financial institutions, they are engines of community empowerment and economic resilience,” said Obonyo. Through collaborating efforts with NCBA Bank we can ensure our SACCOs remain ethical, competitive and future ready through strengthened governance, access to capital and digitalization.
Empowering SACCOs Beyond Banking
Presiding over the event, NCBA’s Group Managing Director, John Gachora, emphasised the crucial role SACCOs play in the economy and the importance of governance and innovation in ensuring business continuity. NCBA Bank considers SACCOs more than just clients, they are seen as integral contributors to Kenya’s national development. The bank’s approach centers on collaboration, with a strong focus on developing solutions that address real-world challenges while enhancing operational efficiency and supporting long-term growth within the sector. “We believe that empowering SACCOs to serve their members is not just a business priority, it’s a national development goal” he noted.
NCBA offers a comprehensive suite of solutions tailored for SACCOs, including core banking systems, digital loan platforms, seamless payment integration services, and specialized training programs aimed at strengthening governance and regulatory compliance. The success of SACCOs relies on the strength of their governance and ability to embrace innovation. At NCBA, we believe that empowering SACCOs is not just about offering banking solutions but being a growth partner providing both financial services and strategic guidance for SACCOs to remain competitive and compliant,” he said.
Strategic Collaboration for Sector Growth and Resilience
This year’s forum brought together thought leaders, regulators, SACCO managers, and fintech experts to exchange views on board effectiveness, cyber security readiness, and adapting to shifting regulatory frameworks. The event provided practical insights into how SACCOs can remain agile and sustainable amidst digital disruption.
NCBA reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the sector through thought leadership, product development, and strategic partnerships, all aimed at creating a more resilient, inclusive, and digitally advanced financial ecosystem.
