SACCOs and health wellness programs: How SACCOS are expanding limits
Savings and Credit Cooperative Organizations (SACCOs) in Kenya, known for their crucial role in the financial landscape, are expanding their services beyond traditional banking to encompass health and wellness programs for their members. These initiatives aim to promote healthy living and prevent diseases among SACCO members, particularly those from low-income and marginalized communities, by offering a range of services such as health screenings, nutrition counseling, fitness classes, stress management workshops, and smoking cessation programs.
These health and wellness programs bring numerous benefits to SACCO members. They not only enhance overall health and well-being but also reduce the risk of chronic diseases, help save on healthcare costs, improve productivity and work performance, and foster community engagement.
Given their trusted relationship with members and a deep understanding of their needs, SACCOs are well-positioned to offer such programs. Additionally, they can leverage their financial resources to provide affordable and accessible services. Several SACCOs have already taken significant steps in this direction.
- The Kenya Police SACCO offers a diverse range of health and wellness programs, including health screenings, nutrition counseling, and fitness classes. Furthermore, the SACCO has established partnerships with local hospitals to provide members with discounted healthcare services.
- The National Teachers SACCO provides its members with a comprehensive health insurance plan covering preventive and curative healthcare services. Additionally, the SACCO organizes wellness programs such as stress management workshops and smoking cessation programs.
- The Sacco Societies Regulatory Authority (SASRA) collaborates with SACCOs to develop and implement health and wellness programs for their members. SASRA also extends financial and technical assistance to SACCOs to support the implementation of these initiatives.
Author: Andrew Walyaula
Andrew Walyaula is a seasoned multimedia journalist. waliaulaandrew0@gmail.com
