MEDIA WHY REFER SACCOs ISSUES TO KUSCCO?

I find it absurd that everybody in the media, usually refer questions concerning co-operatives (Saccos especially) to KUSCCO (Kenya Union of Savings and Credit Co-operatives). Why would one go to KUSCCO seeking to register a co-operative or clarification on what a Sacco is? Or more confusing what Sacco to join?

WHY THE HELL DO THAT?

Isn’t there a government department (used to be a fully fledged ministry) that has an extension department that:

• Offers advisory services to the Co-operative Movement on development of accounting, entrepreneurship, ICT and Management?
• Empowers members to understand and apply the Cooperative Societies Act and Co-operative Development Policies?
• Identifies opportunities for co-operatives to participate in the industrialization process, acquisition of required capital and value addition?
• Facilitates dialogue between stakeholders on how to create a sustainable co-operative structure?
• Ascertains compliance with provisions of the co-operative societies Act?
• Sensitize the public on the advantages of the co-operative system and?
• Disseminates relevant information on the development of cooperatives?
• Promotes groups to be registered as co-operatives?
• Encourages value addition and co-operative marketing?

KUSCCO is a union. A union is formed by two or more primary co-operatives. KUSCCO is a union of co-operatives and rarely play the advocacy role they claim they do. They though offer financial services to Saccos i.e. loans and insurance services. Technical services like consultancy, by-laws drafting, etc offered by KUSCCO are just too expensive for many Saccos. Its is therefore prudent to consult extension services of the Ministry of Industrialization and Enterprise Development, Co-operatives Department who will assist you.