• Uganda
  • Resources
  • Access to Finance
  • VSLAS (Village Saving & Loan Associations)

How to start a Saving Group

 

  • Select/chose group members
  • Bring them together for a first meeting
  • Agree on group leader(s)
  • Discuss on issues to be addressed by the group
  • Appoint members to lead discussions for the upcoming gathering
  • Identify areas in which group members need capacity building
  • Invite speakers/experts
  • Decide on savings and timelines
  • Start tracking your finances

Village Savings and Loans Associations (VSLAs) in Uganda

A Village Savings and Loans Association (VSLA) is a self-managed savings and credit group that does not receive any external funding. It is also self-capitalized using the Rotating Savings and Credit Association (ROSCA) model, where people can pool their savings and borrow from them.

VSLAs have altered the development equation in marginalized communities by providing members with the means to cope with emergencies, build capital and re-create social dynamics. This supports genuine self-reliance of the members.
Women in business can utilise the flexible, informal terms for the credit access/loans. The requirements are less stringent in comparison to those of financial institutions such as commercial banks.
 

While VSLAs have filled the gap left by financial institutes, they are faced with several challenges including:

  • Formation and Management of the VSLAs;
  • Savings are too little to have a transformative effect;
  • Investments for expansion.

Uganda Cooperative Savings and Credit Union Limited (UCSCU)

Supports the formation and development of safe and sound SACCOs to ensure that financial services reach the population across the country.