The general objective of the study was to assess the Importance of accounting information practices at SACCOS in Kinondoni District, where the specific objectives of the study were to find out how SACCO’s funds are managed, determining problems faced in managing funds at SACCOS, and finding out ways of ensuring effective management of funds at SACCOS. Data was collected through questionnaires, interviews, observation and documentary review. The research used a case study because it facilitates intensive study of the social units, enable constructions of the appropriate questionnaires, enables researcher to understand full behavior pattern of the concerned units. The study findings showed that funds are managed through proper keeping of records, usage of computers, periodical auditing, and production of financial reports and involvement of SACCO’s members in budgeting. However, the study results showed that not all the surveyed SACCOS manage funds properly, including the following; accounting procedures not properly followed, default in loan repayment, delays in disbursement of loans, inefficient auditing, inadequately trained accounting staff, poor keeping of accounting records, and non-use of computers in accounting. The respondents also gave their views on ways of ensuring effective management of funds at SACCOS, including employing qualified accountants, training for accountants, proper keeping of accounting records, usage of Information Technology in accounting, upgrading SACCOS staff skills, proper control of non-default in loan repayment, and improving communication. The study results showed that funds are managed in a number of ways at SACCOS, including proper keeping of records, usage of computers, periodical auditing, production of financial reports and involvement of SACCO’s members in budgeting. This study recommends employment of qualified staff as accountants, provision of training to accountants, use of appropriate accounting hardware and software, conduct periodical Auditing, as well as controlling default in loan repayment.

A Dissertation Submitted to Mzumbe University – Dar es Salaam Campus College in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Award of the Degree of Master of Science in Accounting and Finance (MSc. A&F) of Mzumbe University.