By Paul Mwangi
What started as a small merry-go-round women’s group Smart mother’s has transformed into a fully registered savings and credit cooperative society (Sacco), bringing financial empowerment to hundreds of women in Nyeri.
Smart mothers now Smart Savings Credit Society Limited began two years ago with just ten members, spearheaded by John Wambugu. Initially, it operated as a simple savings group where members contributed money in turns.
However, Wambugu soon realized that the women were keen on structured savings and financial growth.
“We saw that women were not just looking for a place to contribute and withdraw funds but were interested in long-term financial security,” Wambugu said. “That’s when we decided to grow the group into a registered Sacco.”
Today, Smart Savings has grown to an impressive 500 members, providing them with a platform for saving, borrowing, and investing. The group recently received its official registration certificate, marking a major milestone in its journey from an informal financial group to a recognized cooperative society.
With this transformation, members can now access structured financial services, including low-interest loans to boost their businesses, savings plans, and investment opportunities. The Sacco aims to uplift women financially, fostering economic independence and growth in the community.
“The journey has been incredible. We never imagined that what started as a small merry-go-round would become a Sacco,” said one of the founding members. “Now, we can save and invest with confidence.”
As Smart Savings Credit Society Limited continues to expand, Wambugu and the members hope to reach even more people, encouraging a culture of saving and financial empowerment in Nyeri and beyond.
Suleiman Mbatiah