MEDIA WHY REFER SACCO/CO-OPERATIVES 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? If you go to KUSCCO, the will most probably tell you about their consultancy services and charge you for their services!! Or more confusing people usually ask KUSCCO what Sacco to join? Really?

WHY THE HELL DO THAT?

Isn't there a government department (used to be a fully fledged ministry whose offices are available at every district Sub-County) 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 especially for those who want to register a new one. Its is therefore prudent to consult extension services of the Ministry of Industrialization and Enterprise Development, Co-operatives Department at the Sub-County level (District) who will assist you and it is FREE!!!!