THE DEPARTMENT OF CO-OPERATIVES

Vision

The Department of Co-operatives expects to see all Co-operatives operate as sustainable life-long and viable competitive business enterprises.

Mission

Its Mission is to facilitate the development of vibrant Co-operatives and other group Enterprises that are capable of contributing positively to sustainable employment generation, poverty reduction and community development through capacity building, Policy Implementation, Co-ordination, Monitoring, Evaluation and Regulation based on our belief in the effectiveness of group actions. The Department is further committed to being client-centred, efficient, professional and cost-effective in our service delivery.
 

Functions

The functions of the Department are categorized into three (3) areas.

1. Facilitatory/Regulatory Services;
2. Advisory Services;
3. Provision of Social Services.

1. Facilitatory / Regulatory Services:

This involves creating an enabling environment for the operation of Co-operatives and ensuring that, they comply with the provisions of the Co-operative Societies Decree 252 of 1968.  Activities undertaken include: –

1. Sensitisation of the public on the importance of Co-operatives.
2. Group Formation and Enterprise Development.
3. Registration/Liquidation of Co-operative Societies.
4. Audit, Inspection, Enquiry and Settlement of disputes.

2. Advisory Services:

Department of Co-operatives facilitates the formation of Co-operatives through: –

1. Attendance at meetings to offer advice on the Co-operatives Law and the principles of Co-operatives.
2. Advise on good Management Practices.
3. Periodic visits in the resolution of problems confronting the Co-operative Management, Conflict Management and facilitating the building of proper records.

3. Provision of Social Services:

In the performance of its non-statutory duties, the Department of Co-operatives does the following:

• Continuous Education of the General Public on the virtues of Group Work (ADVOCACY).

• Continuous Education of Member's Rights and Responsibilities towards Establishing Sustainable life-long Viable Co-operation Enterprises.
• Continuous Training of Executives and Management Staff in Business and Financial Management.