Chamas have been part of South African and African life for decades. From groceries to school fees to building homes — we’ve used group saving to make things happen. But not every chama thrives. Some fall apart due to poor planning, lack of trust, or unclear expectations.

At MyChama, we’ve taken the best of what works in traditional chamas and built a system that’s transparent, accountable, and sustainable. If you're looking to join a reliable savings circle, here are five non-negotiables to look for — and how MyChama meets each one.

1. A clear structure
Without structure, a chama is just a chat group. MyChama operates with a fixed monthly contribution, payout date, and system for handling funds. Everyone knows the rules from the start — and that builds trust.

2. A formal agreement
Every good chama needs more than just a handshake. MyChama members agree to a legally binding constitution that outlines the purpose, contribution rules, payout terms, and how decisions are made. This protects everyone and avoids future confusion.

3. Accountability through visibility
Transparency is key. MyChama members get access to a secure portal where they can see their contribution history, current balance, and progress. This eliminates guesswork and builds confidence.

4. Emergency flexibility
Life happens — and a good chama should allow for that. MyChama includes an emergency access option, where members can request early access to their funds in times of genuine need. It’s reviewed with care and consideration, not judgment.

5. A growth mindset
Great chamas don’t just save — they grow. MyChama allocates a portion of funds toward long-term investments that benefit the group. This creates more value over time, making every contribution even more powerful.

Final Thought
“If you want your savings group to last, it needs more than trust — it needs structure, support, and shared purpose. That’s what makes MyChama different.”