There is a lack of financial institutions serving communities in rural and areas of Thika. A marked increase in the use of semi-formal savings and credit cooperatives and microfinance institutions, indicates a real demand for such services. Many village savings groups in Thika have started to out-grow their existing structure due to increasing member numbers. There is a pressing need for a more efficient way of meeting the communities’ needs.

We will help the villages launch two community-owned and managed village 'banks'! More people will benefit, with greater financial access in the Thika district. It is a proven solution to the issue of financial exclusion, helping some of the poorest people. These village banks will identify local needs, and design innovative and flexible financial products to meet these needs. Members of the savings groups automatically become shareholders in the new 'bank'.