Software for women's, youth and community self-help groups
Women's groups, youth groups and community self-help groups often combine savings, a merry-go-round, small loans and welfare in one group. ChamaBook handles all of it in one book, with tools simple enough for members using basic phones.
What women's, youth and self-help groups need
Several activities in one group
Members with basic phones
Fines and rules applied fairly
Records that can be shown to lenders and partners
How ChamaBook helps
All activities in one book. Savings, loans, merry-go-round and welfare side by side, each with its own balance.
Any phone. Members pay from any phone and receive receipts by SMS; the app is optional.
Fines and rules. Fines for lateness or missed meetings are charged and waived with recorded reasons.
A track record. Statements and accounts that show partners and lenders how your group manages money.
A typical set-up
KES 100 weekly savings, a KES 1,000 merry-go-round every month, small loans at 10% flat, and a KES 50 fine for missing a meeting.
Questions women's, youth and self-help groups ask
Is ChamaBook free for small self-help groups?
Groups of up to 15 members can use ChamaBook free. Larger groups choose a paid plan by the number of members, paid by M-PESA monthly or yearly.
Do members need smartphones?
No. Members can pay by M-PESA from any phone using their member number. A smartphone or computer is only needed to sign in and see statements, and officials can share statements with members who don't have one.