By KPC Reporter
AFRESA Sacco has officially opened its fourth branch in Kisii County, a move aimed at expanding access to affordable financial services for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the region.
Speaking during the launch on Tuesday, AFRESA Sacco Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Dr. Berry Odhiambo said Kisii County was a strategic choice due to its strong economic potential and its role as a key commercial hub in western Kenya.
“Kisii County is an economic hub for the western region, making it a very important location for us,” Dr. Odhiambo said.
“By becoming part of this community, we are supporting local people through asset financing, improved access to markets, and skills development.”
Dr. Odhiambo noted that the Kisii branch is the Sacco’s fourth major outlet, following successful operations in Kisumu, Nyamira, and Kakamega counties.
He added that AFRESA intends to use the Kisii branch as a benchmark for tracking MSME growth, particularly in asset financing.
“We have implemented similar projects in other counties, and we believe this is the right time to expand into Kisii, which offers significant economic opportunities,” he said.
“Looking ahead to 2026, we plan to open more access offices across the country to bring our services closer to the people.”
The launch was attended by senior county government officials, including Mr. Cyrus Nyabicha, who represented the Kisii County Ministry of Trade.
Mr. Nyabicha, the County Executive Committee Member for Environment, Natural Resources, and Climate Change, welcomed AFRESA Sacco to the county on behalf of the county government.
“We warmly welcome AFRESA Sacco to Kisii County,” Mr. Nyabicha said. “Saccos play a critical role in economic empowerment, especially for people in lower-income brackets, including women, youth, and small-scale traders.”
He said Kisii County offers a conducive business environment and assured investors of the county government’s support in promoting sustainable growth.
“As a county government, we are committed to providing a favourable environment for investment,” he said.
“Affordable financial services will enable our people to expand their businesses and fully tap into the economic potential that Kisii offers compared to other regions.”
Dr. Odhiambo also emphasized the importance of regulation and sustainability in the Sacco sector, noting that all saccos must operate within established regulatory frameworks to protect members’ savings.
“We encourage all saccos to comply with regulations to ensure stability and sustainability,” he said.
“We do not want situations where a sacco operates today and collapses tomorrow. Members’ savings must be safeguarded.”
He further highlighted the role of saccos in promoting financial literacy, mentorship, and business training, noting that access to affordable credit remains a major challenge for many entrepreneurs.
“As a county and as saccos, we must work together to mentor business owners, promote a strong saving culture, and encourage responsible borrowing and repayment,” he added.
