On July 5, 2025, the cooperative spirit came alive in Makueni County, Kenya, as the community gathered at the Makindu Chief’s Camp to mark International Cooperative Day under the theme “Co-operatives Driving Inclusive and Sustainable Solutions For A Better World.”
Organized by the Makueni Sub-County Ushirika Day Committee in partnership with the State Department for Cooperatives, the celebrations brought together more than 250 cooperative members, government leaders, and development partners. The day began with a vibrant public procession from Ola Petro Station to the Chief’s Camp — complete with a live marching band and guided by local traffic officers — setting a festive tone for the day ahead.
Once at the Chief’s Camp, visitors explored exhibitions of locally made products and services, from handcrafted goods to agricultural innovations. Cultural performances provided a colourful backdrop to the event, reflecting the deep connection between cooperatives and the communities they serve.
Representatives from over a dozen cooperatives participated, including: Kimatwa SACCO (host SACCO), Makindu Handicrafts Cooperative Society, Emali Boda Boda SACCO, Kibwezi Honey, Makasa and Mazawa Farmers, Kwakyai Rural SACCO Ltd, KWETU SACCO, Cooperative Bank, Makueni Union, Ulote SACCO, Makindu United SACCO, Makindu Boda Boda SACCO
The diversity of sectors represented — from farming and transport to finance and crafts — underscored the breadth of the cooperative movement’s impact in the region. Approximately 30% of attendees were women, a promising sign of growing gender inclusion.
Representing CDF Canada’s VOICE Project (funded by Global Affairs Canada), Leadership and Governance Advisor John Garcia delivered a keynote speech that resonated strongly with the audience. His remarks emphasized:
Garcia also highlighted the VOICE Project’s ongoing work in Kenya to strengthen cooperative leadership capacity and governance systems, making them more inclusive and responsive to community needs.
The celebrations were not just a reflection of past successes — they also sparked discussions about the future. Many cooperatives expressed interest in:
These priorities align closely with the VOICE Project’s mission and present an exciting opportunity for deeper engagement in the months ahead.
The Makueni County celebrations were a powerful reminder that cooperatives are more than just economic entities — they are community anchors that can drive social inclusion, empower marginalized groups, and foster sustainable growth.
By investing in strong governance and inclusive leadership, CDF Canada and its partners are helping ensure that cooperatives continue to be a force for positive change in Kenya and beyond.
