Nakuru County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Trade, Hon. Stephen Kuria, on Monday reaffirmed the County Government’s commitment to empowering cooperative societies and traders. Speaking during the Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the KST Sacco, Hon. Kuria addressed key issues affecting the Sacco members and outlined available opportunities for growth and sustainability through county programs.
The meeting, held in Nakuru Town, brought together Sacco members, cooperative leaders, and key stakeholders to review progress, share financial updates, and engage with county leadership on matters affecting their operations.
In his address, Hon. Kuria assured members of the Sacco that there will be no forced removal or displacement of traders from the town. He emphasized that the County Government under the leadership of Governor Susan Kihika remains focused on creating a conducive business environment where traders and cooperatives can thrive.
“No one will be removed from the town. The County Government seeks peaceful coexistence and a structured engagement process with all traders and cooperative groups,” said Hon. Kuria.
He urged members of KST Sacco to explore the County Cooperative Revolving Fund, which offers loans at an interest rate of 6%. According to the CECM, this fund provides a sustainable financial option for cooperatives and individual members to access credit for expanding their businesses and improving their income streams.
“The revolving fund is designed to boost the cooperative movement by increasing access to affordable credit. I encourage KST Sacco to apply and benefit from this initiative,” he added.
Hon. Kuria also highlighted the ongoing role of cooperative societies in Nakuru County’s economic development strategy. He said the County Government recognizes the contribution of cooperatives in generating employment, enhancing savings culture, and promoting inclusive economic growth at the grassroots level.
Governor Susan Kihika’s administration, he noted, remains committed to supporting cooperatives like KST Sacco by creating a policy environment that enables their growth. This includes enhancing access to financial services, promoting digital transformation, and facilitating training on governance and financial management.
During the meeting, Rhonda Ward Member of County Assembly (MCA) Hon. John Macharia accompanied the CECM. Hon. Macharia pledged his continued support for KST Sacco and other similar cooperatives within his ward. He acknowledged the importance of organized groups in improving household incomes and driving community development.
“Cooperatives are a vital part of our local economy. They provide structure and accountability for members and help promote financial discipline. As your representative, I will continue working closely with the Sacco leadership to ensure your issues are addressed,” said Hon. Macharia.
KST Sacco Chairperson, in his remarks, thanked the County Government for its consistent engagement with the Sacco. He noted that county-led initiatives such as the cooperative revolving fund and technical training opportunities have positively impacted members and enhanced the Sacco’s financial base.
He also encouraged members to remain united and proactive in engaging with government programs that aim to improve the business environment in Nakuru.
The AGM also featured updates on the Sacco’s performance over the past financial year, including growth in membership, improvement in loan repayment rates, and strategic plans for expanding service delivery. Members were briefed on new policies, investment options, and digital tools to improve operations.
As Nakuru County continues to position itself as a trade and investment hub, the County Department of Trade remains focused on empowering cooperatives and SMEs through structured partnerships, policy support, and access to affordable credit.
The County Government’s vision is aligned with the national agenda of strengthening the cooperative movement to create employment, increase productivity, and foster equitable development.
Through continuous engagement, training, and support programs, the Department aims to enhance the capacity of Sacco societies to become sustainable financial institutions capable of supporting their members’ needs.
The KST Sacco AGM serves as a reminder of the important role cooperative societies play in the socioeconomic framework of Nakuru County. By fostering collaboration between the government and grassroots organizations, the county is taking practical steps to empower communities and build a resilient local economy.
