Wazalendo Savings and Credit Cooperative Society (WSACCO) recently inaugurated a new branch in Fort Portal City, Kabarole District, marking a significant development in its service provision. The branch, relocated from its former site at Muhooti barracks, has been upgraded into a cash-operating facility, aiming to enhance accessibility for its members.
Commander Land Forces, Lt Gen Kayanja Muhanga, commended WSACCO’s remarkable eighteen-year journey, hailing it as a success story worthy of recognition. He lauded the visionaries behind the SACCO, notably late Gen Aronda Nyakairima and Gen (Rtd) Kale Kayihura, for their initiative in improving the lives of service personnel and addressing their post-retirement needs.
Lt Gen Muhanga emphasized Wazalendo’s pivotal role within the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) and urged its leaders and stakeholders to safeguard its integrity diligently. The Chairman of the Board of Directors (BOD), Maj Gen Sam Kavuma, underscored the importance of overcoming fear, citing it as a significant obstacle to success. He urged WSACCO to explore opportunities beyond its common bond, challenging members to measure the SACCO’s impact by the transformation in their lives.
Brig Gen Stephen Mugerwa, Deputy Commander of the Mountain Division, expressed gratitude to the Wazalendo community for their commitment to serving soldiers and pledged continued support for the branch, even outside the barracks setting. Meanwhile, Chief Executive Officer Col Joseph Freddy Onata clarified WSACCO’s position, affirming that it would not transition into a commercial bank. He highlighted existing partnerships with banks, providing members with comprehensive banking services and emphasized the branch’s focus on convenience, savings education, and training.
Col Onata further disclosed that the Fort Portal branch represents a unique venture for WSACCO, as it is situated on the SACCO’s land and incorporates commercial elements. He explained that part of the building would serve WSACCO’s needs, while the remaining space would be rented out to the public, generating revenue to cover operating expenses.
Situated under the Mountain Division, the branch aims to serve members from Kamwenge, Kyenjojo, Kibaale, Kabarole, Kasese, Bundibugyo districts, and beyond. With its strategic location and enhanced services, the new branch signifies WSACCO’s commitment to fostering financial inclusion and serving its diverse membership base.
In a related development, Wazalendo SACCO extended its support to women in Katakwi District, commemorating International Women’s Day by donating essential items. The donation included reusable sanitary pads and mama kits, valued at ten million shillings.
Katakwi Resident District Commissioner, Major (Rtd) Godfrey Katamba, praised WSACCO for its community-oriented approach, serving not only its members but also the broader community.
Colonel Betty Musuya, Director of Women Affairs of UPDF, appreciated WSACCO’s timely support, emphasizing the donation’s significance in promoting girls’ hygiene, education, and aiding mothers in need.
Major Ongodia, representing the Eastern Region on WSACCO’s Board of Directors, highlighted the cooperative’s commitment to supporting vulnerable girls and women, aligning with cooperative principles.
Maj Mariam Kagoro, the Gender representative on the Board of Directors, reiterated WSACCO’s inclusive ethos, acknowledging the support provided to the community beyond military personnel.
District Health Officer, Dr. Simon Omeke, underscored the importance of WSACCO’s donation in addressing critical issues such as menstrual hygiene management and birth preparedness in Katakwi District.
The distributed sanitary pads and mama kits aim to support school-going girls, teenagers, and expectant mothers identified by local leaders, contributing to improved well-being within the community.
