BUNYANGABU
Residents of Bunyangabu District have been encouraged to embrace a culture of saving through formal financial institutions and avoid keeping money in their homes following the opening of a new branch of New Kyamuhunga People's SACCO (KYAPS) in Rwimi Town Council.
The call was made by the Bunyangabu Resident District Commissioner (RDC), Nicholus Kamukama, while officiating at the opening of the SACCO's newest branch over the weekend.
The Rwimi branch becomes the 13th branch of KYAPS and is expected to bring financial services closer to residents, particularly farmers and small-scale business operators who have for years struggled to access
affordable financial support.
Keep money in safe hands
Addressing residents during the function, Kamukama warned against keeping cash at home, saying the habit exposes families to theft and limits financial growth.
"Many people continue to lose money because they keep it in their homes. Some become victims of theft, while others spend the money without proper planning. Financial institutions such as SACCOs provide safer options for saving and also create opportunities to access credit for development," Kamukama said.
He noted that improving access to financial services remains critical in supporting government efforts aimed at increasing household incomes and reducing poverty.
Kamukama further encouraged residents to develop a saving culture and make use of the financial products offered by SACCOs.
"When people save and borrow responsibly, they are able to invest, expand their businesses, and improve their standards of living," he added.
Bringing services closer to farmers
Rwimi Town Council and the surrounding areas are largely agricultural communities, with many residents engaged in onion growing and maize farming as their major economic activities.
Farmers in the area have often faced challenges accessing financial institutions, forcing some to travel long distances to obtain banking and credit services.
KYAPS Board Chairperson, Paul Kahigi, said the branch was established in response to repeated concerns raised by residents and farmers.
"We listened to the concerns of farmers and business people in this area who needed financial services closer to them. Opening this branch is part of our commitment to supporting local communities and ensuring they have access to affordable financial solutions," Kahigi said.
He said the branch would reduce transport costs for residents while promoting saving and investment.
"We believe financial services should be accessible to everyone, regardless of where they live," he added.
New loan products introduced
KYAPS General Manager, Atwijukire Johnbosco, said the SACCO has continued to introduce products tailored to different categories of members.
"We have introduced new products, including youth loans and women's loans, with affordable interest rates to empower people economically and improve household livelihoods," Atwijukire said.
He explained that the institution aims to support agriculture, small enterprises, and youth-led businesses through accessible financing.
"At a time when communities are looking for ways to increase production and incomes, financial inclusion remains key. We want our members to access services that help them grow sustainably," he said.
Residents welcome the new opportunity
Residents welcomed the opening of the branch and expressed optimism that it would transform livelihoods through easier access to savings and credit facilities.
Kansiime Evalyne, a resident of Kyakatabaazi in Rwimi Town Council, said the branch would improve financial access for local farmers.
"We have been travelling long distances to access financial services. Having a branch here means farmers can now save regularly and apply for loans to expand onion growing and maize farming," Kansiime said.
Atuhaire Monic, also a resident of Kibungo, said easier access to financing would support agricultural productivity.
"Many farmers have struggled to get capital for farm inputs and business expansion. This branch will help us access loans and improve our household incomes," Atuhaire said.
The celebrations were also marked by a friendly football match between KYAPS staff and Ngabu FM at the Rwimi Town Main Playground.
The match attracted residents and visitors who gathered to witness the sporting event organised as part of the branch opening celebrations.
KYAPS emerged victorious after defeating Ngabu FM 2–0 in a match that added excitement to the day's celebrations.
Residents described the match as a symbol of community engagement and teamwork as the SACCO extends its services to the area.
The opening of the Rwimi branch is expected to strengthen financial inclusion in Bunyangabu District and support farming communities seeking to expand production, improve incomes, and build sustainable livelihoods through saving and investment.
