Abstract:
The study was conducted in Mpwapwa district from February to June, 2018. The study
examined social sustainability of Savings and Credit Co-operative Societies in Tanzania with
critical reflection in Mpwapwa district. Four SACCOs were involved in the study, three
SACCOs were dormant and one was active. The study used a sample of 48 respondents
including 40 SACCOs members, seven board members and one District Cooperative Officer.
Specifically, the study examined the influence of SACCOs formation of on improving
sustainability of SACCOs, members participation in improving sustainability of SACCOs and
the roles of co-operative knowledge in improving sustainability of SACCOs. A multiple case
research design was used as well as both primary and secondary data and qualitative content
approach in data analysis. Primary data were collected using focus group discussion and
interview method while secondary data were collected using documentary analysis method.
The findings revealed that formation of SACCOs contributed to poor sustainability of
SACCOs. The coverage area for SACCOs discouraged members to participate in SACCOs
activities. Lack of commitments and participation in SACCOs activities among members also
contributed to poor sustainability of SACCOs. Moreover, the study found that lack cooperative education among SACCOs members and leaders contributed to poor sustainability
of SACCOs. The study concluded that all visited SACCOs were not socially sustainable. The
study recommends that SACCOs formation need committed members who can participate in
SACCOs activities. Geographical coverage needs to be considered during SACCOs formation.
All SACCOs have to be self-reliant. Moreover, co-operative education to members and board
is highly insisted Cor the sustainability of SACCOs in the study area,
