Africa-Press – Kenya. APSTAR digital-taking Sacco has recorded a strong performance in the year ended December 2025, with both growth in member deposits and assets despite tough economic times.
During the year under review, member deposits grew to Sh11.6 billion, up from Sh11.1 billion in 2024, representing a growth of five per cent.
Its loan portfolio, which remains the core driver of Sacco income, also recorded steady growth with net loans to members increasing from Sh12.26 billion to Sh12.98 billion in 2025.
Apstar total assets increased by seven per cent to Sh16.8 billion from Sh15.68 billion in 2024, a net growth of approximately Sh1.1 billion in one year.
Speaking during the Sacco’s 48th Annual Delegates Meeting at the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development in Nairobi, chairman Philip Cherono commended members of the organisation for remaining strong and resilient despite the hard economic times the country was going through.
He noted that the Sacco had registered positive growth across all its key financial parameters, thus demonstrating continued confidence the members have in Apstar.
During the year, an additional Sh720 million was extended to members in form of credit.
“This is a substantial amount injected by the Sacco to support various socio-economic developmental needs of members. This loan amount is an important indicator because every loan issued represents an opportunity for a member to create employment, build a home, educate a child, expand a business or improve their livelihood in one way or another,” Cherono said.
Growth in assets, he noted, reflects the expanding financial strength of the institution.
“It also carries regulatory obligations since asset growth requires the Sacco to strengthen its capital base to remain compliant with prudential regulations,” he added.
The Sacco’s core capital also grew five per cent to Sh2.59 billion, while institutional capital increased by seven per cent to Sh1.35 billion.
On the revenue side, the society recorded a turnover of Sh2.23 billion up from Sh2.08 billion recorded in 2024.
The chairman said the Sacco maintained prudent financial management by reducing expenses, with the board committing to ensure that the Sacco operates efficiently while safeguarding members’ resources.
Apstar had received Sh 84 million as interest on deposits during the year under review as well as the share capital rising at the rate of 11 per cent amounting to Sh130 million.
The Board proposes dividends on share capital at the rate of 11 per cent amounting to Sh130 million, up from 10 per cent paid in the previous year.
Additionally, a 15 per cent dividend is proposed for Ukulima Headquarters Investment Shares.
The board also proposed payment of Sh6.2 million in honoraria to the board of directors, supervisory committee and branch officials who served during the year under review, in appreciation of their service and commitment to the growth of the Society.
Over the last five years, the sacco has continued to attract new members. During the year 2025 the society on-boarded 3,801 new active members. Total membership now stands at 53,071 after a data clean-up exercise.
Cherono said Apstar had embraced technology through the Electronic Document Management System (EDMS). Through this system, operational documents are now being digitised and securely stored within the Sacco’s computerised environment.
“In line with our commitment to improve accessibility of services, the Sacco also upgraded the Members’ Online Portal during the year under review. This upgrade introduced an Online Loan Application Module, enabling members to apply for loans conveniently through the digital platform,” he said.
