ASAPU members in Lango to form SACCO to boost financial empowerment

OYAM, October 16, 2025 — The members of the Association of Secretaries and Administrative Professionals in Uganda [ ASAPU ] in Lango are planning to establish a Savings and Credit Cooperative Organisation [SACCO] to enhance the economic and social wellbeing of its members.

During a recent meeting held at the Oyam district headquarters, members discussed the need to mobilise secretaries across the Lango Sub-region to expand the association’s current membership of 60.

Patrick Odora, Chairperson of the ASAPU Lango Branch, said uniting under a SACCO would enable members to register officially and build a solid financial foundation.

He urged secretaries who have not yet joined ASAPU to register and participate in the initiative, which is aimed at improving their livelihoods.

“To all secretaries who have not yet joined us, please let’s come together and register. Our aim is to mobilise resources to uplift our standards and achieve the goals we’ve set,” Odora said.

Oyam District LCV Chairperson, Benson Dila, endorsed the association’s proposal to form a SACCO, saying it would better position them to access funding from the government and development partners.

Jeneth Enon, a secretary with Alebtong District Local Government, welcomed the move, noting that secretaries often earn some of the lowest salaries in the public service, which makes joining external SACCOs challenging. She expressed hope that the proposed SACCO would enable members to access credit and improve their living standards.

Nancy Auma, Secretary to the Chief Administrative Officer [CAO] of Apac district, highlighted the financial difficulties secretaries face due to the absence of a dedicated support structure.

“This meeting has helped us map a way forward to address the persistent challenges faced by secretaries — such as being overworked without corresponding promotions or salary increases. Many have left the profession as a result,” Auma said.

Joel Ojedra, Deputy CAO of Oyam district, praised the secretaries and administrative professionals for organising under an association. He encouraged them to embrace a strong culture of saving, which he said was vital for long-term financial security.

https://thecooperator.news/lango-fewer-youth-embrace-coffee-farming-compared-to-the-elderly/

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