Best SACCOs to Join in Kenya in 2025 🏦

Kenya’s SACCO (Savings & Credit Cooperative) sector continues to be a powerful avenue for ordinary Kenyans to grow savings, access credit, and benefit from cooperative ownership. As of 2025, there are over 178 deposit-taking SACCOs licensed by the Sacco Societies Regulatory Authority (SASRA). (Verify status on the SASRA portal)
But not all SACCOs are equal. Below is a deep dive into the leading SACCOs to consider in 2025, plus guidance on how to choose one wisely.

Why Join a SACCO?

• Member-owned, not profit-first: Returns go to you via dividends, interest on deposits, or lower interest loans.
• Better loan terms: Many SACCOs lend at rates lower than commercial banks for members.
• Collective strength: Pooled capital enables bigger projects, group guarantees, and better financial security.
• Encourages discipline: Regular saving cultures develop among members.
• Local presence: Many SACCOs have branch networks and digital services for convenience.

Key Selection Criteria ✅

Before you pick a SACCO, evaluate it using these benchmarks:

1. Regulation & licensing: Only join SACCOs licensed by SASRA. Confirm via their official list. (Depositor protection depends on this.)
2. Asset base & liquidity: Larger asset base often signals stability and capacity to honor withdrawals and loans.
3. Dividend & interest history: Check past payouts on share capital and interest on deposits.
4. Range of services: FOSA (front-office) services, BOSA (back-office) loans, digital banking, mortgages, diaspora access, etc.
5. Member accessibility: Branches, agent networks, mobile apps, online portals.
6. Governance & transparency: Board term limits, audited accounts, open member meetings.
7. Fit with your affiliation or profession: Several SACCOs serve teachers, civil servants, energy workers, etc.

Top SACCOs to Consider in 2025

1. Mwalimu National SACCO

Originally for teachers, this remains one of Kenya’s largest SACCOs with a robust branch network. It excels in dividend payment history, diversified loan products (education, development, asset financing), and steady member trust.

2. Stima SACCO (Stima DT)

With roots in the energy sector, Stima SACCO has grown into a nationwide power player. It offers both FOSA and BOSA services, digital access (mobile apps), and is known for consistent dividends and decent liquidity.

3. Kenya National Police SACCO

Though traditionally for police officers, it now opens membership broadly. Benefits include competitive loan products, high annual dividends, and a reputation for stability among security sector SACCOs.

4. Hazina SACCO

Hazina blends membership from public service, parastatal, and general public. It offers FOSA & BOSA, often tours to counties, and historically solid payout ratios.

5. Unaitas SACCO

Originally a dairy farmers’ cooperative, Unaitas has transformed into a modern SACCO with banking features. It gives flexibility to small businesses and individuals, with asset financing and savings products.

6. Mentor SACCO

Mentor has grown rapidly in recent years. It is often cited among high dividend payers and offers a mixture of savings and credit products—especially appealing to entrepreneurs and salaried individuals.

7. Tower SACCO

In 2025, Tower SACCO is among the SACCOs that reported double-digit dividends and interest rates, making it attractive to savers seeking high returns. It also has a growing asset base and branch reach.

8. UN Deposit-Taking SACCO (UN SACCO)

UN SACCO was recently awarded “Best Managed SACCO” at the Ushirika 2025 Awards. It offers cutting-edge digital platforms and even a dollar savings account option for members interested in diversification beyond Kenyan shillings.

Dividend Leaders in 2025

One way to gauge SACCO performance is by tracking their payout on share capital and interest on deposits. In 2025, some SACCOs have reported payouts of up to 20% on share capital and double-digit interest rates on deposits. Tower, Ports, Ollin, Winas, Cosmopolitan, Mentor, Univerion, and Solution SACCOs have been listed among top payers.

How to Join & What to Do After Joining

• Check eligibility: Many SACCOs have membership criteria (profession, affiliation, or geographic). Some are open to all Kenyans.
• Make your initial deposit or buy shares: These vary widely—some require KSh 1,000, others more.
• Link to your salary or income stream (for payroll SACCOs): For regular contributions and easier loan servicing.
• Participate in governance: Attend AGMs, vote for directors, get engaged in oversight.
• Use the services: Take small loans, save regularly, and test member services; this gives you perspective on whether the SACCO delivers as promised.

Risks & Precautions

Even SACCOs have risks, so be mindful of:

• Mismanagement or fraud: Weak governance can lead to fund misallocation.
• Liquidity issues: Too many loans and few deposits means inability to pay back withdrawals.
• Unlicensed SACCOs: Always verify SASRA licensing before placing funds.
• Unrealistic returns promises: If returns seem “too good,” they may be symptomatic of risk or unsustainability.
• Dependency on guarantors: Some SACCOs require guarantees which can backfire if defaults occur.

Fast Tips to Rank High in SACCO Choice

Conclusion

Choosing the right SACCO in Kenya for 2025 is a critical financial decision. The difference between one that is stable and member-oriented versus one that is unstable or opaque can significantly affect your savings and borrowing experience.
The SACCOs listed above—Mwalimu, Stima, Police, Hazina, Unaitas, Mentor, Tower, and UN SACCO—represent some of the strongest performers, offering a mix of stability, good returns, service reach, and governance.
Always verify SASRA licensing, review track records, and don’t commit funds beyond your comfort zone. A well-chosen SACCO becomes more than a financial tool—it becomes a partner in your growth. 🌱
For up-to-date regulatory lists and SACCO supervision, you should visit the official SASRA website to see the most recent licensed SACCOs and compliance guidelines.