Savings Groups are one of the most widespread economic empowerment initiatives worldwide. Over the past 30 years, hundreds of NGOs and local civil society organizations have mobilized and trained Savings Groups across 75 countries, with an estimated 20 million active members. A growing body of evidence suggests that – across countries, organizations, and projects – Savings Groups have a consistently positive impact on savings, access and use of credit, investment in income-generating activities, food consumption and security, self-confidence, and market and social support networks. There is also mixed evidence that, in certain conditions, Savings Groups contribute to asset accumulation, income, investment in education, leadership, and women’s empowerment. Beyond financial inclusion, Savings Groups are now promoted as an economic strengthening strategy for diverse development objectives related to livelihoods, women’s economic empowerment, gender equality, health, social protection, and water, sanitation, and hygiene. Through the collaboration of 8 INGOs, learnings were gathered on Savings Groups in Emergency Contexts and compiled into the available documents.
For 2024 the Water+ team presents the Annual Innovation in Sanitation award to the CARE Zimbabwe Takunda team. The team has worked tirelessly to study and pilot innovative ways, through Human Centered Design, to increase access to toilets among the poorest and most vulnerable people in Zimbabwe. The Takunda team works with Latrine Builders, who are experienced masons, to promote sanitation and increase latrine coverage in the community, while also earning an income. Read more about the sanitation approach of Takunda in the brief below. Read More
This report shares case studies from six countries that detail how advocacy, partnerships, and tailored regulatory frameworks have fostered supportive legal environments for Savings Groups (SGs), promoting their growth, sustainability, and integration into formal financial systems while preserving their essential informality. Read More
Through CARE’s Her Money, Her Life Project, Bakari Shidafa, a husband and father in Tanzania’s Usambara highlands, has become a community advocate for gender equality and shared family responsibilities. Despite physical challenges, Bakari champions joint decision-making and women’s rights, encouraging an inclusive approach to family life and inspiring his village toward greater equity. Read More