Best SACCOs to Join in Kenya in 2025
[Photo/Maitree Rimthong/Pexels]
In an era of rising living costs and shrinking credit access, Savings and Credit Cooperative Societies (SACCOs) have become a financial lifeline for millions of Kenyans. Whether you’re looking to save, access affordable loans, or invest in long-term financial security, joining the right SACCO can be a game-changer.
As of 2025, SACCOs in Kenya manage over KSh 1 trillion in assets and serve more than 6 million members nationwide. But with hundreds to choose from, how do you know which SACCO is right for you?
Here are some of the top SACCOs in Kenya that stand out for their reliability, member returns, innovation, and customer service.
1. Stima SACCO
Founded in 1974, Stima SACCO is open to employees in the energy sector and the general public. It’s known for impressive dividends and interest on deposits, with annual payouts exceeding 14% in recent years. Members benefit from low-interest loans, housing products, and a digital platform for ease of access.
- Ideal for: Energy-sector professionals and the public
- Assets: ~KSh 60 billion
- Highlights: 14%+ dividends, low‑interest loans, housing plans, and a solid digital interface.
2. Kenya Police SACCO
This SACCO has earned its reputation through prudent management and consistently strong returns. Open to members of the police and disciplined forces, it now welcomes civilian employees and entrepreneurs. Known for fast loan processing and attractive interest rebates.
- Ideal for: Security officers and disciplined savers
- Assets: ~KSh 50 billion
- Highlights: Fast loan services, attractive rebates, strong governance.
3. Mwalimu National SACCO
One of Africa’s largest SACCOs, Mwalimu National serves over 100,000 teachers across Kenya. With diverse loan products and housing schemes, it offers education-focused financial support and has introduced digital innovations like mobile banking and real-time statements.
- Ideal for: Teachers and education professionals
- Assets: ~KSh 65 billion
- Highlights: Huge membership base, versatile loan options, and a powerful digital portal.
4. Harambee SACCO
Established in 1970, Harambee SACCO is ideal for those in the public sector. It offers competitive loan products and good returns, with an expanding membership base that now includes private sector professionals and entrepreneurs.
- Ideal for: Civil servants and public sector staff
- Assets: ~KSh 35 billion
- Highlights: Competitive services, expanding membership.
5. Unaitas SACCO
Unaitas began as a tea growers’ cooperative and has grown into a national SACCO serving all Kenyans. With a focus on business loans, group lending, and youth empowerment, it offers flexible products for hustlers and MSMEs. It’s also regulated by SASRA as a deposit-taking SACCO.
- Ideal for: SMEs, entrepreneurs, young adults
- Assets: ~KSh 20 billion
- Highlights: Business- and group-lending focus, youth empowerment, deposit-taking license.
6. Safaricom SACCO
Built around the telecommunications giant, this SACCO is a favorite for young professionals and tech workers. It offers competitive dividends, instant mobile loans, and an intuitive digital platform. Though initially for Safaricom staff, it has opened its doors to broader membership.
- Ideal for: Tech professionals and digital enthusiasts
- Assets: ~KSh 10 billion
- Highlights: Staff-focused with expanding public access; smooth digital access and mobile lending.
7. Afya SACCO
Afya SACCO serves health professionals and their dependents. It offers emergency loans, medical financing, and housing schemes. Strong governance and personalized member support have made it a favorite in the healthcare community.
- Ideal for: Healthcare professionals
- Assets: ~KSh 12 billion
- Highlights: Emergency, medical & housing loans with strong service culture.
8. Mhasibu SACCO
Ideal for: Accountants and other professionals
Assets: ~KSh 9.5 billion
Membership: 23,000+ professionals and families
What to Consider Before Joining a SACCO
- Licensing: Ensure the SACCO is registered and regulated by the SACCO Societies Regulatory Authority (SASRA).
- Returns: Compare historical dividends and interest on deposits.
- Accessibility: Check for digital tools like mobile apps or online services.
- Loan Terms: Examine loan interest rates, repayment periods, and collateral requirements.
- Reputation: Look for transparency, management credibility, and member feedback.
The Bottom Line
SACCOs remain one of the most effective savings and credit vehicles in Kenya. Whether you’re a civil servant, farmer, teacher, or entrepreneur, there’s a SACCO tailored to your needs. In a tough economy, choosing the right cooperative could be the smartest financial decision you make this year.
