Our History
Basu Sacco is a Deposit-Taking Savings and Credit Cooperative (Sacco) established in 2010 and registered under the Co-operatives Societies Act (Cap 490) of Uganda. The main goal of Basu Sacco is to promote a savings culture among rural women and create a source of loanable funds, ultimately enabling them to overcome financial hardships. Currently, Basu Sacco serves 2,000 active members, and through its progressive leadership, dedicated staff, and community support, it has rapidly expanded its reach and impact.
Implemented Projects
Basu Sacco has implemented and completed projects that have aimed at enhancing the livelihoods of rural women through sustainable agricultural and business initiatives. One key project focused on improving maize farming techniques by training women in modern practices and value addition, such as turning maize into flour. This initiative boosted income and food security while diversifying income streams. Similarly, another project introduced beekeeping as an alternative livelihood, providing women with training, equipment, and market access for honey and other bee products, thus creating additional income opportunities while supporting local ecosystems. Further projects focused on improving infrastructure and financial access. Women entrepreneurs received motorcycles to enhance mobility and market access, allowing them to efficiently transport goods and reduce costs. In partnership with the Microfinance Support Centre, Basu Sacco also offered low-interest loans to help women start or expand businesses, overcoming financial barriers. Additionally, staff and members were trained in business planning and financial management to strengthen the Sacco's operations and improve members' entrepreneurial skills. Basu Sacco also focused on improving health and environmental outcomes through initiatives like the Cook Stove Project, which provided energy-efficient stoves to reduce smoke and firewood usage, benefiting both health and time efficiency. Lastly, the beekeeping program was expanded to increase production and market access, further improving women’s incomes while supporting environmental sustainability.
Projects
- Maize Farming Practices and Value Addition
- Bee Keeping Support
- Support Loan Program
- Cook Stove Project
- Business Plan Development and Capacity Building
- Motorcycle Transport
Impact Through Completed Projects.
• Economic Empowerment: Through the provision of loans, vocational training, and new business opportunities (such as beekeeping and tailoring), women have gained increased economic independence and are better able to support their families. • Health and Environmental Improvements: Projects like the cook stove initiative and beekeeping have not only improved the health of women and their families but also contributed to environmental conservation through sustainable practices. • Capacity Building and Skills Development: Training in business management, vocational skills, and financial literacy has equipped women with the tools they need to build successful businesses and manage their finances more effectively. • Strengthen Community Development: The various initiatives have had a ripple effect, improving not only the financial independence of women but also contributing to broader community development through better sanitation, health, and education.
Basu Sacco’s completed projects have created a lasting impact on the lives of women in rural Uganda, helping them achieve economic independence, improved health, and greater participation in community life. These projects have also laid a strong foundation for sustainable development, addressing both immediate needs and long-term goals for rural communities.