Training for Cooperatives in KWIHAZA Project
In the framework of implementing the project entitled “Capacity development of aquaculture and horticulture cooperatives for food security and increased income of smallholder farmers in RWANDA” executed by UGAMA in line with the KWIHAZA Project under the funding of European Commission and Luxemburg Aid & Development, a set of activities have been planned in order to achieve the project objectives.
One of those activities is training, coaching and mentorship of committees on cooperative governance and management tools.
During the 40 years of working with cooperatives in capacity building, UGAMA has found that cooperatives can operate professionally when they are given the necessary training in Governance and Financial management, but it is even more advantageous when they are helped to obtain tools to be used in their daily management and administration.
UGAMA has therefore developed these tools to help cooperatives in terms of management and administration, allowing them to operate in accountability and transparency which lead to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of cooperative and lead to cooperative success. Those tools are related to Governance tools and management tools which are more needed by cooperatives in their daily management.
The objective of this activity, is to strengthen cooperatives ability to manage and operate effectively, while ensuring their sustainable growth and success. This involves equipping committees, members Board and Staff with the practical skills to understand and apply good governance principles, making informed decisions, and fostering a supportive environment for members. This also help cooperatives navigate challenges and improve their performance, understand the fundamental principles of cooperative governance, including democratic control, member participation, and accountability and transparency, improve the efficiency and effectiveness of cooperative meetings, ensuring that members are fully informed and able to participate in discussion which lead to increased member commitment and participation and lead to cooperative growth and development. In addition the tools covers the Financial Management and Marketing in the Cooperative management context.
The Coaching activity took over two months and involved 60 cooperatives that are scattered in 23 districts that include Kamonyi, Muhanga, Ruhango, Gisagara, Nyamagabe, Rwamagana, Bugesera, Gakenke, Burera, Musanze, Rulindo, Nyanza, Huye, Ngororero, Kayonza, Gatsibo, Nyabihu, Karongi, Rubavu, Rutsiro, Nyamasheke , Nyagatare, Rusizi, and Ngoma.
Coaching was independent for each single cooperative according to the Cooperative; by understanding the cooperative’s unique culture, membership demographics and the local context.
While coaching the cooperative the mentors focused on practical application which should move beyond theory and focus on practical tools and techniques for implementing good governance practices as learned during training.
It was done through workshops, case studies and especially real-world exercises as taken within the cooperative. The coaching was also emphasizing on Democratic Principles : we highlighted the importance of democratic decision-making, member participation, and transparency. We addressed the role of the board of directors in representing members’ interests.
The trainers created spaces for open communication and knowledge sharing between cooperative members, board members, and staff. Encourage peer learning and the exchange of best practices.
It included ongoing support and resources to the cooperative, including follow-up sessions, mentoring, and providing access to relevant information.
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