Thesis (MDF)--Stellenbosch University, 2012. / Union Régionale des Coopèratives d’Epargne et de Crédit (URCOOPEC) is a network of 10 savings and credit cooperatives, established in 1990 by UNDP in Chad to support the government’s strategy of strengthening and improving access to financial services to the population. All the cooperatives are located in and around N’djaména the capital city of Chad. URCOOPEC has developed as a microfinance model owned by the community that is able to help the poor population that is excluded from the formal financial services accessing these services. Despite its potential of reaching people even in remote areas, literature about previous studies in other countries has indicated that sustainability of savings and credit cooperatives is hampered by the issues in corporate governance, management, skills, product development amongst others. This study examines the viability of this model in the context of Chad; particularly it examines the conditions for which this model can better contribute to financial sector development in Chad. The findings reveal that the model was helpful and accepted by many users at its earlier stage. However, weaknesses in corporate governance, credit management and shortage of skills have led this URCOOPEC into difficulties. There is a need for training of technical staff and for the board to develop more products, sensitize the members about their rights and duties. URCOOPEC also needs financial support from government and donors as well as linkage with commercial banks to better contribute to the provision of financial services to the population.