- Oparanya has urged Stima Sacco to strengthen financial controls as its asset base expands.
- The cooperative’s growth ambitions have drawn calls for greater accountability and prudent lending.
- Digital investment and cybersecurity remain central to plans to improve member services.
Cooperatives Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya has challenged Stima DT SACCO to strengthen accountability, tighten financial controls and ensure its growing asset base delivers tangible benefits to members.
Speaking during the SACCO’s Annual Delegates Conference in Mombasa, Oparanya cautioned that expansion must go hand in hand with prudent lending, adequate financial reserves and stronger systems to safeguard members’ savings.
He warned SACCO leaders against prioritising attractive member returns at the expense of long term financial stability. He urged them to reinvest part of their surplus earnings in technology, improved services and measures that would cushion institutions against economic shocks.
Oparanya also called for greater transparency in procurement, recruitment, lending and investment decisions. He urged the board and management to act promptly on audit recommendations and disclose potential conflicts of interest.
He challenged Stima SACCO’s leadership to turn its 2025 to 2029 strategic plan into measurable annual targets. Delegates are expected to scrutinise financial performance, loan quality, service delivery and member satisfaction.
The SACCO recorded an asset base of about Ksh 75.27 billion in 2025 and is targeting Ksh 113.5 billion by 2029. Oparanya said this ambition must be backed by disciplined execution, effective cost management and sound risk controls.
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He further encouraged SACCOs to widen access to credit for productive ventures, including small businesses, agriculture and housing. At the same time, he said, they should develop financial products that respond to the needs of young people and women entrepreneurs.
Meanwhile, Stima DT SACCO Chief Executive Officer Dr Gamaliel Hassan said the institution was pursuing sustainable growth through improved operational efficiency, stronger revenue streams and prudent risk management.
Hassan said continued investment in digital platforms would improve convenience and accessibility. He added that the SACCO is developing financial solutions covering savings, credit, home ownership, investment and retirement planning.
Cybersecurity also emerged as a key priority as the institution continues to expand its digital services. Oparanya urged SACCOs to strengthen data protection, prevent fraud and maintain reliable systems, while educating members on safe digital transactions.
The conference underscored the need for Stima SACCO to balance its growth ambitions with responsible financial management and services that put members first.
By Lizzy Aluga
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