Over 30 village savings and loan associations supported by RORU have collectively saved more than 150 million Ugandan shillings, empowering hundreds of families.
The growth of Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs) supported by RORU in Gulu District has reached a significant milestone, with over 30 groups collectively saving more than 150 million Ugandan shillings since the program began two years ago.
These community-managed savings groups, primarily composed of women, meet weekly to save small amounts, provide loans to members, and build a shared emergency fund. The model has proven remarkably effective in communities with limited access to formal banking services.
Real Impact on Families
Members report using their savings and loans for a variety of purposes:
- Paying school fees for their children
- Starting small businesses such as market stalls and poultry farming
- Improving their homes with iron sheet roofing and concrete floors
- Covering medical expenses during emergencies
"Before the savings group, I had no way to plan for the future," shared one member from Paicho sub-county. "Now I have savings, a small shop, and my children are in school. This has changed everything for my family."