County Government of Nakuru, through the Department of Cooperatives, is making significant strides in strengthening cooperative societies by promoting viable ventures across the region. This commitment was recently reaffirmed by Hon. Kibet Kurgat, the Chief Officer for Cooperatives, during the 24th Annual General Meeting of SUMAT Multipurpose Cooperative Society, where he announced the County’s ongoing support through the Cooperative Revolving Fund.
The Cooperative Revolving Fund is a key initiative under the leadership of Governor Susan Kihika, aimed at providing affordable credit to SACCOs and cooperative societies to help them grow their financial capacity and support their members more effectively. Through this fund, the County Government is enabling cooperatives to access capital that can be used for development projects, business expansion, and improved service delivery, particularly in underserved and rural communities.
The meeting, held in an engaging and insightful atmosphere, provided a platform to reflect on the progress made by SUMAT Cooperative Society and discuss the future of cooperative development in the region. Hon. Kurgat commended SUMAT for its steady and strategic growth, especially its successful implementation of fifteen projects that have had a tangible impact on the lives of its members. He noted with pride that SUMAT remains the only active multipurpose cooperative society in the region, a clear indication of its resilience, sound management, and continued relevance in the lives of the people it serves.
Hon. Kurgat further urged the cooperative to embrace digital transformation by incorporating modern technology into its operations. He emphasized that the adoption of digital tools would enhance transparency, improve efficiency, and attract a younger generation of members, ensuring the sustainability and modernization of the cooperative movement. His message resonated strongly with the society’s leadership, who recognized the importance of moving with the times in a rapidly changing financial and technological landscape.
In his address, Mr. F.K. Kenei, the Chairperson of SUMAT, echoed the county’s vision by highlighting the society’s unwavering commitment to supporting its members in achieving their personal and economic development goals. He pointed out that the sustainability and growth of the cooperative largely depend on the continuous recruitment of new members and the strengthening of cash flow systems. His remarks underscored the cooperative’s dedication to inclusivity and long-term planning as pillars of success.
The Annual General Meeting was also graced by key stakeholders from the financial and insurance sectors, including representatives from APA Insurance, Cooperative Bank, CIC Insurance, Egerton SACCO, and the Sub-County Cooperative Officer, Mr. Martin Muchemi. Their presence underscored the importance of multi-sector collaboration in driving the cooperative agenda and ensuring that societies such as SUMAT can continue to thrive.
Governor Susan Kihika’s administration has made the cooperative sector a cornerstone of its economic development agenda. By investing in cooperatives and SACCOs, the County Government is fulfilling its promise to uplift communities, foster financial inclusion, and create opportunities for local economic transformation. The Cooperative Revolving Fund stands as a testament to this commitment, offering societies the resources they need to implement impactful projects, empower entrepreneurs, and generate employment.
The benefits of this initiative are already being felt, as SACCOs supported through the fund are able to extend affordable loans, invest in income-generating activities, and support their members during times of need. This has led to improved livelihoods, increased business opportunities, and a renewed sense of hope among cooperative members.
As the County Government continues to prioritize cooperative growth and innovation, it is clear that Governor Susan Kihika is living up to her promise of inclusive development and empowerment for the people of Nakuru. Through such initiatives, the cooperative movement is not only being revitalized but positioned as a powerful vehicle for social and economic transformation in the county