GDC SACCO Society Limited has hosted development partners and government officials in Kiambu County during a field visit aimed at showcasing the impact of a financing programme supporting thousands of small businesses.
The delegation included Anke D’Angelo, Kenya Development Corporation (KDC) Chairman Sakwa Bunyasi, KDC Director General Norah Ratemo, and officials from the National Treasury’s Project Implementation Unit.
The team was received by GDC SACCO Board Chairman Joseph Gitau Mburu and Chief Executive Officer Dr. Charles Kioko, who led the visitors through engagements highlighting how members are benefiting from the SAFER Programme.
According to the SACCO leadership, the initiative is backed by a Ksh500 million financing facility designed to improve access to affordable credit for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
Through the programme, more than 15,000 small businesses are receiving financial support to expand their operations and strengthen their economic activities.
Officials said the collaboration between GDC SACCO and the Kenya Development Corporation has opened new opportunities for members seeking digital and affordable financing solutions.
The financing is supporting a wide range of economic activities, including small-scale enterprises, dairy farming, and environmentally friendly projects aimed at promoting sustainable development.
During the visit, officials emphasised the importance of partnerships between financial institutions and development organisations in expanding financial inclusion across the country.
They noted that access to affordable financing remains one of the biggest challenges facing many small businesses, particularly those operating in rural and peri-urban areas.
Through initiatives such as the SAFER Programme, SACCO members are able to access financial services that allow them to grow their businesses, improve productivity and create employment opportunities.
GDC SACCO leaders said the programme is not only supporting entrepreneurship but also strengthening local economic development by enabling members to invest in productive sectors.
The SACCO also highlighted the role of digital financing in improving efficiency and ensuring members can access services more conveniently.
Officials expressed optimism that continued collaboration with development partners and government agencies will help expand opportunities for more members in the coming years.
The field visit provided an opportunity for stakeholders to assess the progress of the programme and explore ways of strengthening support for small enterprises.
GDC SACCO has encouraged more individuals and businesses to join the cooperative movement, noting that SACCOs remain a key driver of social and economic development in communities across the country.
