Uganda Prisons Service SACCO has launched a sensitization and empowerment program for its staff, focusing on financial literacy, economic growth, and collective development through its Savings and Credit Cooperative Organization.

The program, launched at Kooki Region, aims to educate staff on the benefits and operations of Prison SACCO, promoting financial security, affordable credit, and collective growth. Mr. David Okiring, Principle Rehabilitation and Reintegration Officer (Vice Chairperson of Prisons SACCO board), emphasized the importance of encouraging a saving culture, providing affordable loans, and supporting government programs like the Duty Free Shop service.

Mr. Rugasira Charles, Senior Superintendent of Prisons (RPC of Kooki), highlighted the significance of the SACCO sensitization campaign, noting that it's not just about saving money but creating opportunities for financial growth, stability, and securing the future. He urged all staff to actively participate and take advantage of the initiative to improve their financial wellbeing. The program will benefit staff from 20 prisons in the Kooki Region, that are Rakai, Kabula, Kayanja, Lwamagwa, Kacheera, Mutukungula, Kaliisizo, Kabira, Kakuuto, Kassali, Lwengo, Ndagwe, Kiseka, Kyazanga, Sembabule, Lwebitakuli, Mateete, Lwemiyaga and Ntuusi Prisons.

The Uganda Prisons SACCO has a membership establishment of 12,880 and all 269 units stationed in 19 administrative regions will benefit from this program.

The engagement of SACCO with staff enabled clarification on a number os SACCO aspects. Trainers emphasized financial discipline, responsible borrowing, and smart investment. They also provided hands-on training on the MSACCO application which was launched at this year’s Annual General Meeting, teaching staff how to: - Register and login - Check account balances - Deposit and withdraw funds - Apply for loans Staff expressed enthusiasm, appreciating the initiative to improve their financial wellbeing.

Mr. Martin Opira, Prisons SACCO Accountant, provided an overview of these products and services, catering to the diverse needs of staff. He emphasized the importance of financial literacy and responsible borrowing practices. This program is set to empower Uganda Prisons staff to achieve personal economic empowerment, enhance financial literacy, and improve their quality of life, ultimately contributing to economic stability and community development.

The Prisons SACCO offers a range of financial products, including: - Savings Products: - Regular Savings Account - Time or Fixed Deposit Account - Target Savings Account (e.g., for children's fees, retirement, asset acquisition) - Loan and Credit Products: - Personal Loans - Business Loans - Building and Construction Loans - Agricultural Loans - Emergency Loans for Kooki Prisons staff In addition to these financial products, the program will also provide training on the operations of the Mobile SACCO (MSACCO) and its benefits to staff. The MSACCO will enable easy access to financial services, promoting convenience and financial inclusion.