ROLE OF SACCOS IN ENHANCING FINANCIAL INCLUSION AMONG ENTREPRENEURS IN REMOTE AREAS: IMPACT OF SACCOS IN BRIDGING FINANCIAL GAPS

The study examines the critical role of Savings and Credit Cooperative Societies (SACCOs) in enhancing financial inclusion among entrepreneurs in remote areas. Using a mixed-methods approach, quantitative data from structured surveys and qualitative insights from interviews were analyzed. Statistical tests, including regression and chi-square, revealed significant findings: a strong positive correlation (r = 0.96, p < 0.01) between SACCO membership and credit access, a fifteenfold savings increase (t = 14.56, p < 0.001), and 75% of entrepreneurs reporting moderate to high business growth due to SACCO loans (χ² = 48.23, p < 0.001). These results underscore SACCOs' socio-economic impact, promoting financial literacy, savings culture, gender inclusivity, and employment generation. The study recommends enhancing financial literacy, expanding digital services, fostering gender-inclusive policies, addressing operational challenges, and increasing policy support to sustain SACCOs' transformative role in bridging financial gaps.