By KJ Odongo
Hazina Sacco Society Limited has officially launched a Satellite office in Kitale town in a bid to better serve the western and North rift regions. The Kitale Satellite office is now located at the Mezzanine floor of Mega Plaza in Kitale town and is a significant expansion in the Sacco’s quest to publicize its products and services in the region.
The launch was presided over by the County Government of Trans Nzoia Executive Committee Member for Agriculture, Livestock, and Co-operatives Mrs. Phanice Khatundi.
While congratulating the Sacco on their bold move, Mrs. Khatundi implored the Sacco to partner with the County Government of Trans-Nzoia to further empower resident’s socio-economically.
‘As a county government, we are willing and ready to work with you as you empower our people. Hazina Sacco is known for its innovative products and services and the vast CSR projects it has undertaken over the years. We now want to officially welcome you as you set up here, to continue empowering people and the communities they live,’ she said adding that partnering with the County government is a good avenue to network and pull resources to better serve members.
The CECM added that her office will provide the necessary support framework for Hazina Sacco on common areas of interest to advance economic development and financial inclusion in the region.
Established in 1971 and registered under the Co-operative Societies Act (Cap 490) of Kenyan law, the launch of the satellite office marked a significant milestone for Hazina Sacco whose fortunes have greatly grown over the years.
Meeting Growing Demand…
Speaking at the Satellite office launch event, Hazina Sacco Chairman Mr. Evans Kibagendi noted that the establishment of the satellite office is in line with the Sacco’s strategic plan on expansion, and in a bid to take services closer to the people and meeting the growing demand for innovative tailor-made products and services.
‘The opening of the Kitale satellite office is a significant milestone that has strategically positioned Hazina Sacco to meet the growing demand for our financial solutions. With this new office, we will be able to reach the previously unbanked and be able to grow together,’ noted the Hazina Sacco National Chairman.
He went on to highlight that the Kitale town Satellite office represents not just an increase in physical locations but a strategic initiative to address and close the financial service gap in the area by enhancing access and support within the community.
“Today as we set up in Kitale town, I want you all to know that it is not just a mere expansion drive, we are responding to the demands of the people. This is a testament to our commitment to providing quality financial services closer to our members,” Mr. Kibagendi affirmed.
Hazina Sacco Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Dickson Okungu while speaking at the event underscored the relevance of the Kitale Satellite office in broadening the Sacco’s reach and refining service delivery to a hastily growing membership.
‘By providing a local point of access, the satellite office will facilitate easier interactions with the Sacco, streamline the process of accessing loans, savings accounts, and other financial tools, and ultimately support the economic well-being of the community,’ CPA Okungu assured.
He further opined that the Kitale Office will offer substantial benefits to savers in the region by significantly improving their access to Hazina SACCO’s products and services. He added that enhanced accessibility will facilitate greater participation in savings programs, loan opportunities, and other financial services, thereby fostering financial stability and growth among local residents.
Boasting of a membership of over 30,000 active members, Hazina SACCO Society Limited continues to offer loans and saving services through its Back-Office Services Activity (BOSA) and Front Office Savings Activity (FOSA).
In addition, the society has leveraged technology to enable members access products and services through their mobile phones at their comfort.
‘We have not ruled out technology. Our mobile banking and internet banking channels are an alternative, fast and convenient way to bank. However, our physical presence is also very important for us to be able to directly interact with our members,’ said the CEO.
According to the Hazina Sacco Chief Executive Officer, the Kitale Satellite office will be essential in improving the financial well-being of its members and is set to revolutionize the financial landscape in the region.
The satellite office now offers financial products such as savings accounts opening, personal and business loans issuance to members and businesses, and investment opportunities, all customized to fit the unique circumstances of individual and business members.
‘With this expansion into the North Rift, we expect to draw more members into the Sacco with the help of the already existing members. We remain steadfast to delivering quality products and services to our members, for together, we prosper,’ concluded the CEO.