The Kenyan government is advocating for the merger of small cooperative societies, particularly SACCOs, to enhance competitiveness and sustainability in a rapidly changing financial landscape. Speaking at the 4th annual Cabinet Secretary’s Cooperative Movement Stakeholders’ Forum, CS Wycliffe Oparanya noted that more than 216 SACCOs have asset bases below Ksh1 billion, limiting their ability to compete effectively.
He urged SACCOs with similar economic or social bonds to explore mergers or shared services, particularly in ICT platforms, to achieve economies of scale and improve service delivery. “Global practices show that consolidation, coupled with technology adoption, boosts efficiency and growth,” Oparanya said.
CAK chairman McCloud Malonza emphasized the importance of digital integration, consistent reporting, and adherence to IFRS standards to enhance transparency and reliability. He called for an end to paper-led, opaque systems and encouraged SACCOs to adopt fintech partnerships and cybersecurity measures.
Kenya has 26,582 registered cooperatives, including 13,511 SACCOs and 4,300 SACCO agents. The regulated SACCO industry boasts a total asset base of Ksh1.07 trillion, positioning Kenya as the leading country in Africa for cooperative membership and deposits, and seventh globally.
The government’s push for consolidation aims to strengthen operational efficiency, improve governance, and ensure the cooperative movement remains competitive both locally and on the international stage.
