Ardhi Sacco, one of Kenya’s most prominent deposit-taking Saccos, was officially registered on 5th October 1971 by the Commissioner for Co-operative Development. Initially formed with a common bond tied to the Ministry of Lands and Settlement, the Sacco has expanded significantly over the years due to transfers, restructuring, and diversification within the civil service and other sectors. Today, Ardhi Sacco boasts a diverse membership from government ministries, private sector institutions, groups, and individuals, all of whom benefit from its robust financial services. With an asset base exceeding Ksh 2.31 billion, Ardhi Sacco is a pillar in Kenya’s cooperative movement.
In this article, we explore Ardhi Sacco’s membership eligibility criteria, the requirements for joining, and the rights afforded to its members.
Ardhi Sacco Membership Eligibility
Ardhi Sacco welcomes a broad range of potential members who meet specific criteria, as outlined in the Sacco’s by-laws. The following categories of individuals and groups are eligible for membership:
- Government Employees (Past and Present): Employees of all government ministries and institutions can join Ardhi Sacco. This includes both current employees and retirees from government service, particularly those who worked in the Ministry of Lands and Settlement.
- Private Sector Employees: Individuals working for private sector organizations registered in Kenya are eligible, provided they are capable of making regular contributions to the Sacco and fulfilling loan repayment obligations.
- Business Entrepreneurs and Institutions: Ardhi Sacco opens its doors to approved business entrepreneurs and organizations that wish to become members, allowing them to benefit from the Sacco’s financial products and services.
- Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs): Members of NGOs can also join the Sacco, taking advantage of the savings and credit facilities it offers.
- Kenyans in the Diaspora: Kenyans living abroad, but still keen on maintaining ties with financial services back home, are also eligible for Ardhi Sacco membership. This offers them an opportunity to save and invest in their homeland.
- Universities: Both students and employees of universities across Kenya are welcome to join the Sacco, opening up additional savings and investment opportunities.
- Groups and Chamas: Social groups, investment groups, and chamas (self-help groups) can join Ardhi Sacco and pool their resources for collective benefit.
Ardhi Sacco Membership Requirements
To become a member of Ardhi Sacco, prospective individuals and groups must meet the following requirements:
- Application Form: All applicants must complete an official membership application form, which can either be downloaded from the Sacco’s website or picked up at the Sacco’s office. The form provides the necessary details for processing membership.
- Membership Fee: A one-time membership fee of Ksh 1,000 is required upon submission of the application form. This fee is non-refundable and serves as an initiation charge into the Sacco.
- Monthly Contribution: Members are required to make a minimum monthly contribution of Ksh 2,500. This amount contributes towards the member’s share capital, allowing access to various Sacco products, including loans.
- Sinking Fund Payment: A monthly sinking fund contribution of Ksh 300 is mandatory. Out of this, Ksh 150 is allocated to the sinking fund itself, while the other Ksh 150 goes towards catering for the institutional ratio deficit.
- Passport Photos: Two recent passport-sized photographs must be submitted along with the application form.
- Identification Documents: A copy of the applicant’s National Identification Card (ID) and Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) PIN certificate is required for identity verification and compliance with tax regulations.
Ardhi Sacco Membership Rights
As an Ardhi Sacco member, individuals and groups enjoy a range of rights designed to ensure they actively participate in the governance and benefit from the Sacco’s offerings. These rights include:
- Participation in General Meetings: Members have the right to attend and participate in all decision-making processes during general meetings. This democratic process ensures members have a voice in the management of the Sacco.
- Voting Rights: Each member holds the right to vote in all general meetings, enabling them to influence the leadership and key decisions of the Sacco.
- Eligibility for Election: Members are eligible to be elected to various leadership positions within the Sacco, subject to the provisions outlined in the Sacco’s by-laws.
- Access to Facilities and Services: Members have access to all the financial facilities and services offered by Ardhi Sacco. This includes savings accounts, loans, investment opportunities, and other financial products.
- Access to Information: Members are entitled to access legitimate information concerning the Sacco’s operations. This includes internal regulations, registers, minutes of general meetings, supervisory committee reports, annual accounts, and inventories available at the Sacco’s registered office.
Ardhi Sacco Contacts
Ardhi Sacco’s head office is strategically located at Survey of Kenya, in Ruaraka, Nairobi. For any inquiries or further information regarding membership and services, prospective members can reach the Sacco through the following contact details:
- Phone Number: 0730 725 000
By joining Ardhi Sacco, members not only gain access to a secure platform for savings and credit services but also become part of a growing community committed to socio-economic development. If you meet the eligibility criteria and are ready to invest in your financial future, Ardhi Sacco is an excellent choice.
