1. Introduction

Financial inclusion remains a critical challenge for low-income and vulnerable communities in Meru County. Many individuals lack access to formal banking services, credit facilities, and financial education, limiting their ability to invest in income-generating activities. To bridge this gap, Igati Creative and Innovators has developed the Igati Community Table Banking Model, a grassroots financial empowerment system designed to help individuals accumulate savings, access affordable credit, and invest in agricultural cluster projects.

At the core of this model is the CHAMA VAULT mobile application, a digital platform that enhances the efficiency, security, and transparency of table banking transactions. This initiative aligns with the principle that no one should be left behind in the journey toward economic empowerment and sustainable livelihoods.

2. Problem Statement

Despite the crucial role of financial access in poverty alleviation, many community members in Meru County, particularly women, youth, and smallholder farmers, struggle with:

• Limited access to credit and savings facilities.
• High interest rates from microfinance institutions and shylocks.
• Lack of financial literacy and inclusion in formal banking.
• Inconsistent or inadequate capital to start and sustain economic ventures.
• Difficulty in mobilizing funds for agricultural investments and small businesses.

The Igati Community Table Banking Model provides a sustainable, locally driven solution to these financial challenges by leveraging collective savings, community support, and digital technology.

3. Objectives

• To promote financial inclusion for low-income and vulnerable individuals through an accessible and community-led savings and credit system.
• To establish a sustainable capital base for members before they engage in agricultural cluster projects.
• To enhance financial literacy and savings culture within communities.
• To provide a secure, transparent, and efficient digital platform (CHAMA VAULT) for managing table banking activities.
• To strengthen community resilience and self-reliance by fostering cooperative financial management.

4. Implementation Strategy

The model operates through self-organized table banking groups where members make weekly contributions as low as Kshs 20 per week to create a pool of funds for internal lending and project investments. The process follows a structured approach:

4.1 Formation of Table Banking Groups

Groups are formed with a minimum of 10 members, preferably from the same locality or agricultural cluster. Members agree on weekly contributions, loan terms, and repayment structures. Leadership structures (chairperson, treasurer, secretary) are established for accountability.

4.2 Capital Accumulation and Loan Disbursement

Weekly savings accumulate to form the group’s capital base. Members can access low-interest loans based on their savings record and repayment capacity. Loan repayments and interests are reinvested to strengthen the financial pool.

4.3 Integration with Agricultural Clusters

Once a group builds its financial base, they transition into agricultural cluster projects, such as poultry farming, beekeeping, sunflower production, or grain aggregation. The table banking model ensures members have sufficient initial capital for agricultural inputs, equipment, and operational costs.

4.4 Digitalization through CHAMA VAULT

The CHAMA VAULT app streamlines transactions by offering:

• Digital record-keeping for savings, loans, and repayments.
• Automated loan calculations and reminders.
• Mobile money integration for seamless deposits and withdrawals.
• Financial reports and insights for informed decision-making.

4.5 Capacity Building and Financial Literacy

• Training sessions on savings, credit management, and investment strategies.
• Workshops on agriculture, entrepreneurship, and digital finance to enhance economic participation.
• Partnerships with financial institutions for further support and expansion.

5. Expected Benefits

• Improved Financial Access: Members gain access to capital without relying on external lenders.
• Increased Economic Stability: Households and small businesses achieve financial resilience.
• Agricultural Empowerment: Farmers secure necessary funds to invest in productive ventures.
• Community Development: The initiative strengthens social bonds and cooperative growth.
• Digital Inclusion: CHAMA VAULT enhances efficiency, security, and accessibility in community banking.

6. Sustainability and Scalability

The Igati Community Table Banking Model is designed for long-term sustainability through:

• Revolving Funds: Continuous reinvestment ensures financial growth and stability.
• Scaling to Other Communities: Once established, successful models can be replicated in other sub-counties.
• Integration with Government and NGOs: Partnerships enhance technical support and funding opportunities.
• Leveraging Technology: Expanding CHAMA VAULT functionalities will improve financial inclusion beyond table banking.