The Uganda Prisons SACCO has recorded impressive financial growth, posting a 22 percent increase in gross turnover to Shs 1.65 billion in 2025, up from Shs 1.35 billion in 2024, reflecting improved operational efficiency and rising member participation.
According to the SACCO’s Annual Financial Performance Report, this growth translated into higher member dividends, with Shs 884,737,840 declared for distribution after expenses and statutory provisions—a 17 percent increase from Shs 759,409,840 shared in 2024.
Speaking at the 18th Annual General Meeting held at the Uganda Prisons Services Headquarters in Luzira, Kampala, SACCO CEO SP Alex Kennedy Opiny attributed the success to strategic product innovation and increased uptake of savings and investment schemes.
“After considering all expenses and statutory provisions, members will directly benefit from Shs 884 million in payouts, reflecting steady growth in our financial performance,” Opiny said. “We also introduced fixed deposits as an investment product during the last AGM, which has gained significant traction, currently standing at Shs 1.36 billion.”
The SACCO’s balance sheet also strengthened, with total assets growing by 13 percent to Shs 12.9 billion in 2025, up from Shs 11.5 billion in 2024. Over a longer horizon, assets have expanded by 59.3 percent from Shs 8.12 billion in 2021, signaling sustained institutional growth.
The loan portfolio expanded by 81.4 percent, rising from Shs 6.37 billion in 2021 to Shs 11.56 billion in 2025, supporting members’ income-generating activities, particularly in agriculture and small business ventures. Similarly, member savings increased by 32.3 percent over the same period, from Shs 1.32 billion to Shs 1.74 billion.
“While savings have improved, the saving culture among some officers remains low and needs to be strengthened,” Opiny noted. “We must continue to sensitise members on the importance of consistent savings to ensure long-term financial stability.”
Equity growth also remained strong, with members’ shares rising by 59.4 percent from Shs 4.57 billion in 2021 to Shs 7.29 billion in 2025, further reinforcing the SACCO’s capital base.
The Commissioner General of Prisons, Can. Dr. Johnson Byabashaija, lauded the SACCO’s leadership for its positive trajectory but cautioned members on governance risks.
“You must elect leaders who are not greedy; otherwise, they will eat your money,” Byabashaija warned, emphasizing the importance of integrity and accountability in safeguarding members’ investments.
The SACCO’s performance underscores the growing role of cooperative savings institutions in enhancing financial inclusion and supporting wealth creation among public sector employees. With continued focus on governance, product innovation, and member education, Uganda Prisons SACCO is poised to sustain its growth and deepen its impact on members’ livelihoods.