The 20th Annual National Cooperatives Workshop for Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) concluded on Thursday, May 8, with a strong call to embrace change and spearhead transformation within the cooperatives sector.
Held at the Sarova Whitesands Beach Resort in Mombasa County, the three-day event brought together cooperative leaders from across the country to discuss challenges, opportunities, and the future of cooperative societies in Kenya.
During his closing remarks, Vincent Marangu, Director of the Cooperatives Banking Division at the Co-operative Bank of Kenya, stressed the need for innovation and adaptability among cooperative leaders.
He urged CEOs to break away from outdated models and reimagine strategies that align with today’s dynamic market.
“What we did yesterday will not sustain us tomorrow. We have to do things differently,” he said.
He added that cooperative leaders must not only be consistent in their service delivery but also fight daily to improve their brands and offerings in order to remain relevant and competitive.
This year’s workshop ran under the theme “Leading beyond the horizon”, a message Marangu said should not be taken lightly.
He challenged CEOs to carry the power of the theme back to their organizations and use it as a rallying call for transformation.
“Go back to your offices with renewed energy and intellectual clarity. Let this workshop be a turning point, a moment that redefines how you lead your teams and serve your members,” he said.
Marangu stressed the importance of visionary leadership, reminding CEOs that the future of the cooperative sector depends on decisions made today.
He called on leaders to strive toward leaving a lasting legacy that will inspire the next generation of cooperative professionals.
“Let’s ensure we leave a footprint of our impact in everything that we do,” he said.
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He urged the CEOs to be deliberate in their actions and leadership approach.
Leadership consultant and Street Hub founder Dr. Wale Akinyemi called for stronger customer relationship practices, emphasizing the importance of customer experience in business growth.
“When the experience is good, price will no longer be an issue,” he said.
Akinyemi noted that exceptional service can be a key driver of transformation and success in any enterprise.
He drew attention to the rapid shifts in consumer expectations, technology, and financial services, adding it is crucial to adapt to change for survival and growth.
Akinyemi said that while cooperatives have historically played a key role in empowering communities economically, the sector is now at a crossroads.
He cited the growing competition from fintechs, and other challenges that demand urgent reform and modernization.
Akinyemi also pointed to the need for digital transformation in Saccos and cooperatives, noting that members are increasingly demanding seamless, mobile-first services.
“If we fail to innovate, we risk losing relevance,” he said.
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He also echoed Marangu’s statement that cooperatives cannot serve today’s customers using outdated methods.
Akinyemi said the CEOs must create an enabling environment for the new generation to thrive and also exercise inclusion, mentor their juniors and create linkages.
“When people have a voice, they take ownership. Mentoring and building others is non-negotiable,” he said.
CIC Director of Cooperatives Richard Nyakenogo called for renewed leadership, transparency, and improved governance within the sector.
He urged CEOs to demonstrate courage in fulfilling their organizations’ visions, emphasizing that challenges should not derail the pursuit of both personal and cooperative goals.
BY SHABAN OMAR
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