A Proportionate Regulatory Framework for Savings Groups

CARE Uganda’s “Echoes of Change” campaign uses radio drama, community events, and VSLA discussions to challenge social norms that restrict women’s use of mobile technology. Early insights suggest strong engagement and emerging shifts in attitudes, with both women and men beginning to see the value of women’s access to digital tools.

A randomized controlled trial in Uganda evaluated the Child-Optimized Financial Education (COFE) curriculum delivered through Savings and Internal Lending Communities (SILC). Results show that COFE significantly increased caregivers’ ability to pay for children’s school expenses compared to SILC-only groups. However, COFE did not significantly affect health-related spending or financial self-efficacy. Findings suggest that child-focused financial education can improve educational outcomes for vulnerable households.