@switpye, just saw your post. Most investment groups are formed by people with something in common - same school, job, church, pals, family etc. with some few outsiders. It helps to have some bonds over and above the chama.
So the job is actually for you to look around you, where you are and find some people who share your vision.
@guru267, good point. But chamas perhaps empower those with less strength. And the returns are definitely better than a unit trust, the problem is the hustle of running a chama - it's like another business.
But if you look at Kenya in remote areas, you have to agree they have done wonders for women.