This archive report was first published on 24 June 2020.
On June 24, 2020, Harambee Sacco, a leading Savings & Credit Co-operative in Kenya, revolutionized its services by introducing instant card-issuance for its members. This innovative system allows members to apply for and instantly receive a Visa Debit card, enabling them to transact at any Visa-branded outlet, including ATMs, Co-op Bank Agents, or online stores.
The instant card-issue system is made possible through a partnership with Co-operative Bank, which enables Harambee Sacco to print Visa Debit Cards right at the branch, at the moment a customer applies for a card.
This innovation marks a significant change from the current practice, where members had to wait up to two weeks to receive their Visa debit cards.
Speaking at the launch, Harambee Sacco Chairman Macloud Malonza praised the partnership with Co-operative Bank, saying, "The launch of this instant card issuance is timely, indeed overdue, as it will greatly enhance convenience for our members who from today no longer have to wait for weeks before they receive their cards."
Co-operative Bank's Director of Co-operatives Banking, Vincent Marangu, added, "This launch is the latest among various digital banking solutions provided by the bank to enhance the efficiency of Co-operative Societies for the benefit of their members and prosperity of the Co-operative Movement at large."
