Achani distributes computers with essential software to modernise Saccos

Kwale Governor Fatuma Achani has launched a new initiative aimed at enhancing agricultural production and promoting a saving culture among local farmers.

The event, held at the county headquarters, marked the beginning of the distribution of desktop computers to Ward Savings and Credit Cooperative Societies (Saccos) across Kwale County.

The computers, acquired by the county government through the National Agriculture Value Chain Development Project (NAVCDP), are a critical component of the county’s strategy to support and modernize Saccos.

Governor Achani emphasised the significance of maintaining the devices and encouraged the recipients to use them wisely.

“Today marks a significant step forward in our efforts to modernise and support our farmers. These computers are not just tools, but a commitment from our county government to ensure that Kwale is not only food secure but also financially stable. It is crucial that we maintain these devices and use them to their fullest potential," Governor Achani said.

The computers are pre-installed with EASSY SACCO software, a system designed to streamline Sacco operations by automating many manual processes.

The technological upgrade aims to increase efficiency in managing member contributions and transactions, ultimately supporting better financial management within the Saccos.

In addition to the computers, the Saccos will benefit from inclusion grants totaling Sh1 million under the NAVCDP project.

Furthermore, they are eligible for a matching grant based on the loan demand in each Sacco.

This additional funding will provide further incentives for Sacco members to save and invest in agricultural activities.

Governor Achani highlighted the broader goals of the initiative, stressing the county government's commitment to improving agricultural productivity.

“We are also investing in infrastructure projects, such as the construction of dams in arid and semi-arid areas. This will allow our farmers to practice irrigation farming even during the dry seasons,” she noted.

The event was attended by several key county officials, including CEC Members Roman Sherah (Agriculture, Livestock, and Fisheries), Mishi Kaole (Education), and Saumu Mahaja (Environment and Natural Resources).

Chief Officers Joseph Jabu (Agriculture, Livestock, and Fisheries) and Neema Suya (Environment and Natural Resources) were also present.

Mr Sherah underscored the importance of this initiative in transforming the agricultural sector.

“The introduction of these computers and the accompanying software will revolutionize how our Saccos operate. It will make transactions more transparent and efficient, which is essential for the growth of our agricultural sector,” he said.

Local farmers who attended the launch expressed their enthusiasm for the new resources.

Peter Mwakio, a farmer from the Ukunda Ward Sacco, welcomed the initiative.

“This is a game-changer for us.The computers will make it easier to manage our savings and investments. We are grateful for this support and are committed to using these tools effectively to improve our farming practices,” Mr Mwakio said

Another local farmer, Ms Amina Juma, emphasized the importance of saving.

“Joining the Sacco and embracing saving will help us build a better future,” Ms Juma remarked.

Adding that they hope that more residents will take advantage of these opportunities to enhance their agricultural productivity and financial stability.

The launch event also highlighted the county government's broader strategy to strengthen the agricultural sector and support the livelihoods of its residents.

By modernising Sacco management and providing additional funding, the initiative aims to foster a culture of saving and investment among farmers, ultimately leading to greater food security and economic stability in Kwale County.