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🏦 Types of SACCOs in Kenya: Understanding Deposit-Taking and Non-Deposit-Taking SACCOs

SACCOs (Savings and Credit Cooperative Organisations) are member-based financial institutions that promote saving and affordable lending. In Kenya, SACCOs are categorised into two main types:

• Deposit-Taking SACCOs (DT-SACCOs)
• Non-Deposit-Taking SACCOs (Non-DT-SACCOs)

✅ What Is a SACCO?

A SACCO is a cooperative where members pool resources to save and access loans. It operates on principles of mutual benefit, trust, and financial empowerment.

1. 📥 Deposit-Taking SACCOs (DT-SACCOs)

Also called FOSA SACCOs, these institutions are licensed by SASRA to accept deposits and provide banking-like services.

✳️ Key Features:

• Members can deposit and withdraw funds
• ATM and mobile banking services are available
• Offer loans based on member savings
• Operate teller counters and provide real-time services
• Regulated by the SACCO Societies Act, 2008

📌 Examples:

• Mwalimu National SACCO
• Stima SACCO
• Afya SACCO
• Hazina SACCO

2. 🗃️ Non-Deposit-Taking SACCOs (Non-DT-SACCOs)

Also known as BOSA-only SACCOs, these SACCOs offer loans and savings but do not offer banking services.

✳️ Key Features:

• Do not accept deposits for withdrawal
• Lower operating costs
• Offer credit based on member savings
• No teller services or ATM functionality
• Regulated under the 2020 Non-DT SACCO Business Regulations

📌 Examples:

• Adventist SACCO
• ACK Thika Talents SACCO
• Airlink SACCO

🆚 DT vs. Non-DT SACCOs

Feature	DT SACCOs	Non-DT SACCOs
Accept Deposits	✅ Yes	❌ No
Banking Services	✅ Yes	❌ No
Loan Access	✅ Yes	✅ Yes
ATM / Mobile Banking	✅ Available	❌ Not Available
Regulator	SASRA (under SACCO Societies Act, 2008)	SASRA (under Non-DT Regulations, 2020)
Target Users	Public & multiple regions	Company/Group-specific

🧠 Why It Matters

Choosing the right type of SACCO can impact your financial journey. Whether you're looking for convenience, strong returns, or group-based trust, joining a SACCO aligned with your needs is essential.

• 🔐 Better access to savings and loans
• 📱 Convenience through digital banking
• 📈 Long-term investment opportunities

📌 Final Thoughts

Understanding the different SACCO types empowers you to make the best financial choices. Whether you're a new saver or a seasoned investor, Sacco Link helps you discover and join the right SACCO for your goals.

💡 Tip: Visit our Guarantor Finder or Marketplace to engage directly with members and share opportunities.