By James Murimi - Reporter
Kenya, July 03, 2026 - Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga has challenged co-operative societies to uphold transparency, embrace digital transformation and nurture young leaders, saying the movement remains a key pillar in promoting economic empowerment, social inclusion and peaceful communities.
Speaking during the 2026 Ushirika Day celebrations in Nyeri, Kahiga said the people-centred co-operative model has continued to strengthen livelihoods while fostering unity and shared prosperity across the county.
"As we mark the 104th anniversary of the International Day of Cooperatives, we are not merely celebrating history but renewing our commitment to unity, shared prosperity and community empowerment," the governor said.
He noted that co-operatives have become critical institutions for building peaceful and inclusive societies by ensuring members benefit collectively from economic opportunities.
Kahiga said transparency and accountability must remain at the core of all co-operative societies to guarantee timely and accurate payments to members, adding that strong governance would enhance public confidence in the sector.
"Transparency and accountability must remain at the heart of our cooperatives, ensuring every member receives timely and accurate payments," he said.
The governor also called for deliberate efforts to attract young people into the leadership and management of co-operatives to guarantee continuity and sustainability.
"Welcoming our youth into leadership will ensure a smooth transition to the next generation while embracing digital innovation will keep our cooperatives competitive, resilient and ready for the future," he said.
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The celebrations began with a colourful procession through Nyeri town led by Deputy Governor Kinaniri Waroe and Trade, Tourism, Culture and Cooperatives County Executive Lucy Kiogora before culminating at the Town Hall Grounds.
County officials, Members of the County Assembly, co-operative leaders and stakeholders attended the event, including veteran co-operative leader Newton Nderitu, who was recognised for his contribution to the growth of the movement.
Several co-operative societies were honoured for exemplary performance during the Nyeri County International Cooperative Alliance Awards.
Among the top performers were Othaya Farmers' Cooperative, Njuriga Farmers' Cooperative and Gachatha Farmers' Cooperative in the coffee sector, while New Fortis Sacco emerged as the best-performing large SACCO with the highest dividends on shares and interest on deposits. Wakulima Commercial Sacco, Biashara Sacco, Kimtech Sacco, Karusco Sacco, Tetu Housing Cooperative Society and Slopes Dairy Farmers Cooperative were also recognised for outstanding performance in their respective categories.
Kahiga urged co-operative members to safeguard the values of integrity, accountability and inclusivity, saying the movement remains central to the county's economic transformation agenda.
"We celebrate the cooperative spirit with pride and gratitude, knowing that together we are building a stronger, more inclusive and prosperous future," he said.
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