Zombo, Uganda: The Okoro Constituency Fish Farmers SACCO Ltd in Zombo District has appealed to government for additional seed capital to expand its aquaculture and apiary enterprises under the EMYOOGA Presidential Initiative on Wealth and Job Creation.
The SACCO, established in 2020 and headquartered in Mvule Village, Central Ward in Paidha Town Council, currently serves 187 members organised in eight parish-level associations focusing on fish farming and related fishing activities.
According to SACCO Secretary Manager Godfred Onencan, strategic use of the initial government seed capital of Shs50 million has enabled the group to establish income-generating projects.
“Strategic deployment of these funds has yielded diversified revenue-generating assets including a communal fish pond worth Shs18 million and two medium-sized ponds for member associations,” Onencan said.
The SACCO expects its first major fish harvest this year, projecting revenues of about Shs42 million from fish sales.
In addition, the SACCO invested Shs8 million in an apiary project with 120 modern beehives, expected to produce honey and beeswax worth about Shs28 million during the first harvest scheduled for March 2026.
Members also acquired three hectares of land valued at Shs4.5 million to support long-term aquaculture and apiary expansion.
Loans Officer Monica Akech rated the SACCO’s performance at about 80 percent, attributing the progress to disciplined fund utilisation and improved member enterprises.
Beneficiaries including Oaikane Genario and Albert Onencan testified that access to affordable credit had significantly improved their livelihoods.
Paidha Town Council Commercial Officer Atanasius Wanadi confirmed the SACCO’s strong performance and said high-performing EMYOOGA SACCOs are eligible for additional seed capital, typically Shs20 million, channelled through the Microfinance Support Centre.
The SACCO plans to expand operations through acquisition of a motorcycle for field operations, computer systems to streamline administration, and additional office space.
Other priorities include constructing more fish ponds for member associations, expanding fresh fish supply to markets in Paidha and neighbouring areas, and recruiting more members to strengthen capitalisation.
Despite the progress, Onencan acknowledged challenges including weak savings culture and delayed loan repayments among some members who mistakenly view EMYOOGA funds as non-repayable grants.
He emphasised the need for continued sensitisation and financial literacy training to strengthen repayment discipline.
The SACCO has also appealed to the Registrar of Cooperatives to grant it permanent registration to enhance operational autonomy and increase community confidence.
Officials say the SACCO remains committed to supporting government’s wealth creation agenda by promoting market-oriented production, employment and poverty reduction in Zombo District.
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