In a vibrant celebration of Leadership, Growth, and Community Transformation, Hakashenyi Savings and Credit Co-operative Society Ltd (SACCO) held its official Board Handover Ceremony on Saturday, 26th April 2025, at Kicumbi Primary School, Kabale District. The colorful event brought together a wide array of participants including the District Commercial Officer, Local Government Leaders, outgoing and incoming Board Committee members, and all Branch staff of Hakashenyi SACCO.
In his keynote address, Mr. Mubangizi Deo, the General Manager of Hakashenyi SACCO, lauded the outgoing Board for their exemplary service. “I want to thank the Board of Hakashenyi SACCO for the outstanding work they have done. In a special way, I recognize Mr.Mubangizi Deus, the Founder Board Chairman, for standing in the gap and being an exceptional leader,” he noted.
Mr. Mubangizi highlighted the SACCO’s contribution to local development, citing employment opportunities, internship training, and community support. “Hakashenyi SACCO employs over 42 staff members and has become a training ground for university students. We are proud to have contributed not only to financial inclusion but also to national development,” he emphasized.
He added that the SACCO had made significant strides in reducing its loan risk portfolio to 1%, as per 2025 1st Quarter, a performance he credited to committed leadership and teamwork. “This progress is a result of tireless efforts by our Heads of Departments, volunteers, and support staff,” Mubangizi said, while also thanking Madam Asiimwe Teddy, the Senior Cashier Hakashenyi SACCO, and a longtime contributor to the SACCO’s growth, for her unwavering dedication.
He concluded by encouraging the new Board members to uphold the values of unity and confidentiality. “Work together, maintain integrity, and help take this SACCO to the next level,” he urged.
The Board Chairman, Mr. Mugambagye Julius, in his remarks, described the day as one of celebration and reflection. “Today is a day of knowing one another and appreciating the work done. I urge even the volunteers to keep working hard, because when opportunity knocks, your efforts will be recognized,” he stated.
He officially introduced the incoming Board Committee to the members and guests and appreciated the outgoing members for their dedication. “The outgoing team has officially handed over, and we thank them for loving the SACCO and serving it faithfully,” he said. Mr. Julius expressed gratitude to the government for providing a conducive environment for SACCOs to thrive and reaffirmed his commitment to continue serving. “Forward Together, Backward Never,” he declared.
The LC3 Chairperson of Kamuganguzi Sub-County, Mr. Elias, praised Hakashenyi SACCO for its transformational role in the Sub-County. “Kamuganguzi is now becoming a model Sub-County because of the work being done by Hakashenyi SACCO,” he said. He advised the SACCO leadership to keep politics out of SACCO affairs. “Politics has destroyed many institutions, including churches. Let us focus on development,” he warned.
He also expressed optimism for the SACCO’s future, saying, “One day, Hakashenyi SACCO will reach the level of Centenary Bank.”
In her remarks, Madam Peace Rutarimara, the Honourable Councilor thanked the SACCO for its active role in community development. “Hakashenyi SACCO is one of the most active SACCOs I know. I thank Mr. Deus Mubangizi for staying active and involved even after his term of office,” she said.
She also addressed broader social issues, urging members to embrace a savings culture and to be vigilant about health. “Let us not forget that diseases like HIV still exist and can affect our future,” she cautioned.
The District Commercial Officer (DCO) of Kabale District, Mr. Erasmas Onesmus, who was the Guest Speaker, praised the SACCO’s structure and achievements. “The strength of a SACCO lies in two pillars: the Board and the Management. Hakashenyi SACCO is thriving because of the unity between these two pillars,” he stated.
He encouraged the new leadership to focus on member needs, staff motivation, and policy implementation. “Discipline, collaboration, and performance appreciation are critical,” he emphasized.
Mr. Onesmus also urged the SACCO to build partnerships with other cooperative societies and microfinance institutions. “Collaboration and transparency will take you far,” he noted, before announcing that Hakashenyi SACCO currently ranks second among all SACCOs in Kabale District.
The ceremony ended on a high note with the presentation of certificates and awards to outstanding performers, including Board Committee members, Departmental Heads, and Branch managers. Outgoing Board Members were also honored for their dedication and service to the SACCO.
The Hakashenyi SACCO Handover Ceremony was more than a leadership transition; it was a testament to the power of unity, community-driven development, and good governance in rural financial institutions. With a committed new board in place and a track record of growth, Hakashenyi SACCO stands ready to write the next chapter of its success story.
