The role of microfinance institutions in poverty alleviation in rural Tanzania: the case of saccos in Mvomero district in Morogoro, Tanzania

It is generally accepted that, the services provided by MFls can enable die poor to smooth their consumption, build their assets gradually and enhance their income capacity and eventually alleviate poverty. However, the main question arising to this view is whether, the activities initiated through funds from SACCOS can fulfill the basic needs of the household and contribute to poverty alleviation? Or they just help them to meet the home consumption demands The main objective of the study was to examine the role of MFls in poverty alleviation in rural Tanzania, with a special focus on member-based SACCOS. The TURSACCOS Ltd located in Mvomero District in Morogoro was used as a single case study. To achieve the main objective, data were collected from both institutions and SACCOS members benefited from the Ions. The data collected from the sampled samples were analyzed and conclusion was made based on the findings. The findings revealed that, to a large extent, SACCOS has brought a positive change in die standard of living to those accessing its services. Engaging in microfinance has enabled people to increase their household income, meet healed and education costs, increase capital investment as well as expand their farms, hereby contribute to poverty reduction in the society. However, despite these achievements, it was blather revealed some constrains associated wide services provided to the beneficiaries; such as interest rate which was pointed out to be relatively high to some members. In addition, payment procedure for the crops sold at Mtibwa Sugar Company was a bit cumbersome. These have been limiting factors for the poor people to participate effectively in SACCOS and generate profit. Lastly, recommendations have been made to relevant parties including local community, the government, non-government organization and international community on appropriate measures that could be taken in supporting and improve the performance of these community based initiatives to attain thee goal of poverty reduction in the county.