These informal savings and credit associations help individuals and families manage their finances, build savings, and provide a safety net. While both women and men participate, susu is widely known among women—especially upcountry—where it is a common way to save and plan for household needs.

Susu groups are typically made up of members from the same community or neighborhood, fostering trust and social bonds among participants. In this endeavor, members agree to contribute a fixed amount of money at regular intervals (weekly, biweekly, or monthly). It creates a pooled fund that can be accessed by members in turn. Many groups begin a cycle with a friendly gathering—often with lunch—where members draw lots (a simple raffle) to decide the order of payouts.

In a typical susu arrangement, every member will receive the total pot at some point, usually in a revolving manner. For example, if there are ten members, one member may receive the total contributions every month until all have had their turn. Some susu arrangements, particularly in urban areas, may involve small administrative fees or interest for management purposes, but traditional systems often operate without such charges.

Unlike traditional banks, susu groups usually do not charge interest on the money lent from the pool, making it a more affordable option for obtaining funds. The structure and terms of susu groups can vary significantly, allowing them to meet the unique needs of their members. This flexibility enhances their appeal and accessibility. Beyond cash pots, some susu/tékk are organised around in-kind goals—such as food (rice, oil), household materials (soap, cooking gas), or support for ceremonies (naming, weddings, etc.)—depending on what the group agrees together.

In The Gambia, susu groups often empower women by providing them with a platform to manage their finances, invest in their businesses, and gain financial independence. While women often make up a significant portion of susu participants, men and mixed-gender groups also engage in susu savings, particularly in business-focused arrangements. This widespread participation reflects the central role susu plays in financial planning across different demographics.

By providing access to funds for investments and consumption, susu groups also stimulate local economies. Members use the funds to purchase goods, start businesses, or pay for emergencies. While many Gambians, especially those in rural areas, lack access to formal banking services, susu groups provide an alternative means of saving and accessing funds. These groups serve as an important safety net, allowing members to access money during emergencies, such as healthcare costs or family needs.

Notably, susu groups often serve as informal education platforms where members not only gather to make contributions but also learn about savings, budgeting, and investment opportunities through discussions and shared experiences. This aspect strengthens financial literacy within communities.

Fundamentally, this practice is deeply rooted in Gambian culture and social practices, reflecting communal values and the importance of trust and social cohesion. By participating in a susu group, members develop regular saving habits, which can lead to improved financial stability over time.

However, despite their advantages, susu groups also face challenges, such as management issues, risk of non-payment, and limited impact on large financial needs. Additionally, in some cases, there is no formal regulatory protection, making dispute resolution difficult. With the rise of digital transactions, there is also an emerging concern about fraud risks in modern susu arrangements.

Susu groups are essentially a vital part of the financial ecosystem in The Gambia, offering mechanisms for saving, access to funds, and fostering community relationships. They are particularly important for individuals who do not have access to formal banking services and play a crucial role in promoting financial inclusion and social bonding, especially among women and small business owners, with strong traditions upcountry.

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