Can You Withdraw Your Shares from a SACCO? The Truth About SACCO Liquidity in 2026

In 2026, many Kenyan investors find themselves asking: "Can you withdraw your shares from a SACCO?" This question is often sparked by a need for emergency cash or a desire to move funds into a high-performing society like Tower or Stima DT.

The short, regulatory answer is no. According to SASRA (Sacco Societies Regulatory Authority) guidelines, share capital is permanent and non-withdrawable. It acts as the "foundation" of the SACCO, ensuring the society remains stable and solvent. However, while you cannot "withdraw" them at a teller, you can transfer or sell them to another member.

This is where the Saccoshares marketplace becomes your most valuable tool, bridging the gap between non-withdrawable equity and the liquidity you need.

Understanding the Difference Between Savings and Share Capital

To understand why you can't withdraw shares, you must first distinguish between your two main pots of money in a SACCO:

• Share Capital (Equity): This is your ownership stake. It is a one-time or gradual payment (minimums usually range from Ksh 10,000 to Ksh 50,000) that gives you voting rights. It is non-withdrawable but earns the highest returns (Dividends).

• Savings/Deposits: These are your monthly contributions. While they are also "non-withdrawable" while you are an active member (because they secure your loans), they are refundable upon your exit from the society, usually after a 60-day notice period.

Do Savings in a SACCO Earn Interest?

Absolutely. While your Share Capital earns dividends, your Savings (Deposits) earn what is known as Interest on Deposits.

In the 2025/2026 financial cycle, many top Kenyan SACCOs have maintained competitive interest rates despite a shifting economy. For example:

• Kenya Police SACCO recently offered 11% interest on deposits.

• Tower SACCO reached as high as 13% interest on deposits.

This interest is usually calculated on a pro-rata basis—the more you have saved throughout the year, the more interest you earn.

How Do You Earn Money from Shares?

Earning money from SACCO shares is one of the most effective forms of passive income in Kenya. You earn primarily through Dividends.

Dividends are a share of the SACCO's annual profit distributed to shareholders. In 2026, the "profitability" of shares is significantly higher than that of savings. While interest on deposits might be 10%, dividends on share capital can reach 15% to 20%.

Pro-Tip: Many savvy investors use their annual dividends to buy more shares, effectively compounding their wealth without spending a cent of their salary.

What is a Share Deposit in a SACCO?

A "share deposit" is a term often used for the Minimum Share Capital required to be a full member. Unlike regular savings which you can stop and start, the share deposit is a fixed requirement.

• It qualifies you for co-ownership.

• It cannot be used as a loan multiplier (unlike deposits).

• It stays with the SACCO as long as the society exists, or until you find a buyer on a platform like Saccoshares.
  
  

  Summary of SACCO Returns (2025-2026 Estimates)

  Investment Type	Type of Return	2026 Estimated Rate	Withdrawability
  Share Capital	Dividends	12% - 20%	Non-withdrawable (Transferable Only)
  Deposits/Savings	Interest	8% - 13%	Refundable on Exit
  Fixed Deposits	Fixed Interest	10% - 15%	At Maturity

  
  

  Why "Saccoshares" is the Key to Profitability

  The biggest risk to profitability in a SACCO is liquidity. In 2026, many members of smaller SACCOs are looking to move their capital to the "Big 5" (Police, Stima, Safaricom, Tower, and Hazina) to maximize returns.

  • For Sellers: Our platform allows you to unlock your capital without waiting for a full membership exit.

  • For Buyers: You can find listings for SACCOs that might otherwise be "closed" to new members or have high entry barriers.

  
  

  Key Takeaway for Saccoshares Users

  If you are asking, "Can I withdraw my shares?" because you need the cash, don't wait for a slow exit process. Listing your shares on Saccoshares allows you to connect with investors looking for "ready-made" equity in top-tier SACCOs, giving you a faster path to liquidity while complying with all SASRA regulations.