Wazalendo Savings and Credit Cooperative Organisation has launched construction of a two-storey commercial complex in Nakasongola, a step in the expansion of welfare services for members of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces.
Maj Gen Mzee Sabiiti, the General Manager of Luwero Industries, officiated at the groundbreaking ceremony. He said the project reflects the SACCO’s steady growth and its alignment with the Commander-in-Chief’s guidance on improving the welfare of soldiers and their families.
“The expansion of Wazalendo SACCO is a clear fruit of the Tarehe Sita struggle. As we celebrate 45 years of achievement, it is encouraging to witness the growth of a welfare venture that directly supports our forces,” Maj Gen Sabiiti said.
The complex will host a cash-operating branch and provide rental space for businesses.
Maj Gen Sabiiti recalled the difficulties soldiers once faced when seeking credit from commercial banks, which he said charged high interest rates after classifying them as risky borrowers.
“In 2005, commanding officers were tasked to mobilise units to join the SACCO. I was one of them. Twenty years later, I can testify that this decision changed our lives. Today, I am conveniently served by my own SACCO with humility and decency,” he said.
He welcomed efforts to promote generational membership by bringing families into the scheme. He urged the SACCO to explore selected services for civilians to strengthen civil–military relations.
The Chief Executive Officer, Col Yusuf Magero Buha, credited the UPDF and SACCO leadership for guiding reforms that have improved service delivery.
He said the Nakasongola facility will become the 15th cash-operating branch because of the area’s history and location. He added that the branch currently handles between 480 and 500 loans each year worth about Shs3.5 billion.
Col Buha said the SACCO also opened the Kabong Liaison Office on the same day. He announced that the 14th cash-operating branch will open in Kihihi on 26 February 2026, with Lira planned for 2027.
Providing a financial update, Col Buha said that by 31 December 2025 the SACCO had registered a surplus of Shs105 billion. He said the loan portfolio stood at Shs1.14 trillion while total assets had reached Shs1.4 trillion.
He thanked President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for backing the SACCO movement and supporting regulations aimed at sustainability.
Representing the Board of Directors, Capt Isaac Bisaru said the new building will create jobs and generate taxes while giving other cooperatives an opportunity to learn from Wazalendo’s model.
Leaders from the UPDF, local government and the SACCO attended the ceremony, including Col Omaria, Col Samuel Ssekamwa, Ms Bazizari Allen, Capt Dathan Bunanukye, WO I Osuko Peter and Director of Operations Mr William Atalyeba.
