Published on 23/08/2025
Wazalendo Savings and Credit Cooperative Society (WSACCO), has commissioned a new commercial complex in the heart of Arua City to enhance service delivery to members and boost its income base.
The facility, which will host a WSACCO branch and provide rental space for businesses, was officially opened by Arua City Resident City Commissioner (RCC) Mr Kumakech Salim, who praised the cooperative’s leadership for strategically investing in the region.
“You have not only expanded services for your members but also created a model for other SACCOs to emulate. Some SACCOs perform better than commercial banks in terms of portfolio and impact, and this is proof of what collective effort can achieve,” Mr Kumakech said.
Speaking on behalf of the Board, Vice Chairman Col Allan Kitanda highlighted the SACCO’s remarkable growth over the past two decades. “Wazalendo has grown into a trillion-shilling SACCO. If men and women in uniform can achieve this, others can too. Why shouldn’t Ugandans invest in their own institutions when foreigners do?” he asked.
He also recognised Brig Gen Joseph Freddy Onata, former CEO, for spearheading the project to completion.
Brig Gen Justus Rukundo, Chairman of the Supervisory Board, expressed satisfaction with the project’s quality, saying members’ funds had been properly utilised. He urged Arua City leaders to support WSACCO’s business ventures.
Acting Chief Executive Officer Col Yusuf Magero Buha outlined the SACCO’s 2024–2025 strategic plan, which includes the construction of branches in Mbale and Arua, alongside upcoming projects in Nakasongola, Lira and Kihihi.
He noted that the Arua complex was designed both to improve access to financial services and to generate rental income for greater self-sustainability. “We are committed to offering affordable financial services, but we also want to ensure that loans taken by members are used productively. Commanders must help us track credit usage so members can learn and improve from past challenges,” he said.
Representing the 4 Infantry Division Commander, Col Godfrey Anang commended WSACCO for transforming the welfare of UPDF personnel and encouraged it to support other SACCOs across the country as a benchmark for performance and grassroots impact.
The ceremony was attended by the representative of the Mayor, Ms Apio Glory Judith; members of the WSACCO Board of Directors; Acting Managing Director of Wazalendo Investments Limited, Lt Col Wesley Aine; Acting Director of Finance and Administration, Lt Col Julius Katanaka; Director of Operations, Mr Atalyeba William; All heads of department; Arua District Police Commander, SSP Bwambale Emmanuel; and other invited guests.
