Detailed Information on Kenya - Muramati Tea Growers SACCO

Project Summary

The project encompasses the development of retail and service network and the provision of loans to members of Muramati Tea Growers SACCO to finance the purchase of solar home systems. Based in Murang’a (80 km north of Nairobi), Muramati is one of Kenya’s leading Savings and Credit Co-operatives (SACCO’s). SACCOs operate on a similar basis to credit unions and are instrumental in providing basic financial services to groups typically excluded from the conventional mainstream banking sector. In the case of Muramati, the membership consists of 15,000 farmers in the tea and coffee industry. PV systems will be installed and maintained by ASP (K) Ltd, a Kenyan solar company with over 20 years experience in the sector, which is expanding its infrastructure into the region to service the project.

PVMTI Investment

PVMTI has committed a total of US$ 0.6 million in loans and grant to the project to co-finance Muramati’s new programme of solar loans. The project is attractive as it provides a mechanism to get credit out to a large number of potential PV customers.

Sponsor Comments

Solar loans are expected to have a significant socio-economic impact among beneficiaries and their families. Solar installations will not only provide light and entertainment for households, but will also assist in raising education standards (provide light for home/evening study), disseminate information and knowledge through media – especially TV - and reduce health risks to young students who do homework using homemade kerosene lamps. Demand for solar installations is expected to be high, especially during tea bonus pay-outs by the national tea marketing agency.

Current Status

PVMTI funds were disbursed for this project and Muramati and ASP are completing final preparations for the launch of the project. Although the Kenyan economy has declined in recent years, tea harvests have remained good and Muramati members are expected to provide a high demand for solar systems.

Contacts

The General Manager
Muramati Tea Growers SACCO
PO Box 1145
Murang’a
Kenya

Tel. +254 156 22991
Fax. +254 156 30113
Email: muramati@nbnet.co.ke