Taita Taveta County unveils cooperative fund to boost rural access to credit

Taita Taveta residents representing various saccos. The county has announced plans to establish a cooperative fund to expand access to affordable credit. (Photo: Courtesy)

By Farhiya Hussein
Sunday, July 5, 2026

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The initiative is intended to complement existing financing programmes and improve access to credit for agricultural production and other income-generating activities.

Taita Taveta County has announced plans to establish a cooperative fund aimed at improving access to affordable credit for farmers, small businesses and co-operative societies, as the devolved government seeks to expand financial services in rural areas.

County officials outlined measures being implemented to strengthen the co-operative sector.

County officials said the proposed Cooperative Fund is expected to operate as a revolving financing facility, providing affordable loans to eligible co-operative societies and their members.

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He said the county government has been undertaking governance reforms, leadership training and capacity-building programmes to improve the management of the societies.

Katuu said funding received through the National Agricultural Value Chain Development Project (NAVCDP) has supported several saccos.

According to the county, 20 saccos have received inclusion grants worth Sh19.2 million, while six others have benefited from matching grants totalling Sh3.84 million.

A further 14 saccos are expected to receive Sh10 million to increase lending to farmers.

County Cooperative Officer Mcharo Mwalugha called on officials managing co-operatives and ranches to strengthen accountability and transparency, saying effective leadership is essential for the sustainability of the institutions.

“I urge co-operative societies to create opportunities that encourage greater participation by young people.”

County Cooperative Development Forum Chairman Daniel Makoko said co-operatives continue to play an important role in supporting household incomes and creating employment opportunities, particularly in rural communities.

He noted that well-managed co-operatives can also contribute to social cohesion by enabling members to pool resources and access financial services.