Sebei widows and widowers launch SACCO to boost economic empowerment

KAPCHORWA, November 13, 2025 — The Sebei One Widows and Widowers Association has launched a Savings and Credit Cooperative Organisation [SACCO] to promote economic empowerment, savings and investment among widows and widowers in the Sebei Sub-region.

The launch, held recently at Kapchorwa Council Hall, attracted more than 150 members, local leaders and community well-wishers, who hailed the initiative as a major step towards self-reliance and poverty reduction.

The new cooperative, named Sebei One Widows and Widowers SACCO [SEWOWOSA], is chaired by Zelda Salimo, a long-time advocate for widows’ rights and economic inclusion. The SACCO aims to support widows and widowers who have faced years of economic hardship, social neglect and limited access to financial services.

Speaking at the event, Salimo said the SACCO was formed out of members’ determination to improve their livelihoods through collective savings and affordable credit.

“For a long time, widows and widowers have been left behind. Many of us struggle to raise our children, pay school fees, or start small businesses because we lack capital. Through this SACCO, we want to change that story and give our members a sense of hope and dignity,” she said.

Salimo added that the SACCO would not only provide loans but also offer financial literacy and entrepreneurship training, alongside group projects in farming, poultry and handicrafts to generate income and reduce dependency.

“We want every widow and widower to know they can rebuild their lives. Together we can save and grow. This SACCO is our voice and our future,” she said.

The Chief Guest Susan Chebet, the District Councillor representing Central Division, commended the association for what she described as a transformative community initiative.

“The formation of this SACCO shows that the people of Sebei are ready to move from dependency to development. When communities unite, great things happen. I encourage you to manage this SACCO transparently and make it a model for others,” she said.

She pledged the district’s support through training and by linking the SACCO to government programmes such as the Parish Development Model [PDM] and Emyooga, both designed to uplift low-income earners.

District Commercial Officer Justine J. Yeko said the SACCO model had become one of the most effective ways for rural communities to access financial services.

“A SACCO gives members ownership and pride. It belongs to you, not outsiders. You save your money, borrow it responsibly and watch your lives change. I urge leaders to maintain good records and build trust among members,” she advised.

The event was marked by celebration as members shared personal stories of resilience. Esther Chebet, a widow from Chepterech, said joining the association had given her renewed hope.

“When I lost my husband, I thought I had no future. I couldn’t even afford school fees for my children. Now, with the SACCO, I see light at the end of the tunnel,” she said.

SEWOWOSA currently has more than 250 registered members across Kapchorwa, Kween and Bukwo districts. Each member contributes share capital and monthly savings, which will fund soft loans for farming, business start-ups, education, health, and household improvements.

According to Salimo, members have so far raised Shs 8 million in start-up capital and are mobilising more funds through local fundraising and partnerships.

“Our goal is to reach Shs 50 million by mid-next year. We’re encouraging members to save regularly. A SACCO is like a tree, it grows when watered with commitment and trust,” she said.

The ceremony concluded with cultural performances from widows’ groups across the sub-region, symbolising unity, strength and resilience. Participants danced, sang and showcased handmade crafts and agricultural products produced by members.

In her closing remarks, Salimo thanked stakeholders for supporting the association’s vision and appealed to government and development partners to provide start-up grants, training and market linkages.

“We’re not asking for handouts; we’re asking for partnership. We want to work hard and uplift ourselves. Empowering widows and widowers means empowering families and communities,” she said, drawing loud applause.

She also urged members to remain united and avoid divisions that could derail progress.

“Unity is our foundation. When we save together, we grow together. Let’s protect this SACCO with honesty and love,” she said.

As the sun set over the Mt. Elgon ranges, the faces of widows and widowers beamed with renewed hope. For many, this was not just the launch of a SACCO but the beginning of a new chapter of self-reliance and collective empowerment.

The establishment of the Sebei One Widows and Widowers SACCO marks a significant milestone in the region’s journey towards economic inclusion, demonstrating that with determination, organisation and shared vision, even the most marginalised groups can shape their own future and contribute to community development.

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