The County Government of Uasin Gishu has committed to capacity-build emerging self-help groups to transform them into investment cooperatives, pledging technical guidance, training and financial backing to accelerate grassroots wealth creation.

During an engagement with members of Galilee Self Help Group in Eldoret City, County Executive Committee Member for Cooperatives Philip Chebunet reaffirmed Governor Jonathan Bii’s commitment to building sustainable cooperative societies.

“Governor Bii’s cooperative agenda is firmly anchored on enterprise funding, capacity building and technical support,” Chebunet told the members.

“We will continue guiding groups that want to join the cooperative movement because well-managed cooperatives have the power to create wealth, improve livelihoods and drive local economic growth,” added Chebunet.

He urged the group, which is preparing to register as an investment cooperative, to keep up its savings culture and adopt sound investment practices once formal registration is complete.

“Maintain your savings momentum and embrace disciplined investment practices,” he advised, adding this was the surest path to long-term success.

County Director of Enterprise Development, Kipleting Mengich, challenged the members to stay consistent with their contributions while assuring them of ongoing support.

“Continue saving steadily. Our department will keep providing training on cooperative management, investment strategies and how to access the County Enterprise Fund,” Mengich said.

Director of Cooperatives Drucilla Cherogony added that the registration process would be prioritised once the group meets all requirements.

“We will fast-track your registration as soon as the necessary conditions are fulfilled,” she said. “That will open the door for members to benefit from government-supported cooperative programmes.”.

Galilee Self Help Group Chairperson, John Saina, said the group was formed only a few months ago with a clear long-term vision of becoming a fully-fledged investment cooperative.

“We set out with the goal of growing into an investment cooperative,” stated Saina.

“So far, members have raised about Sh1 million, with each person contributing at least Sh50,000 every month towards our investment plans,” said Saina.

County officials described the engagement as part of broader efforts to strengthen community-based enterprises and deepen economic empowerment at the grassroots.

By Maurice Aluda