The Ministry of Cooperatives and Micro Small Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) has launched The Best of Kenya Co-Operatives Book, a collection of success stories and a testament to the resilience, innovation and impact of the cooperative movement in Kenya.
Cooperatives and Micro Small Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya, noted that the launch comes at a momentous time when the United Nations (UN) has declared 2025 as the International Year of Cooperatives (IYC) "This global recognition underscores the vital role of cooperatives in fostering sustainable development, promoting economic inclusion and empowering communities," added the CS, urging cooperative societies to take advantage of the unique opportunity to amplify the importance of Kenya's cooperative movement and celebrate its achievements on both national and international stages.
He also reiterated that Kenya prides itself in having one of the most vibrant cooperative sectors in Africa and the forthcoming publication will showcase success stories, best practices and the remarkable contributions of cooperatives to national development. "Our cooperative movement is a pillar of economic growth, empowering millions of Kenyans across various industries," he emphasized in a speech read on his behalf by the Principal Secretary for Co-operatives (PS) Patrick Kilemi.
Further, Dr Oparanya assured that the Government of Kenya acknowledges the crucial role played by Cooperatives in driving economic empowerment, enhancing financial inclusion and supporting small enterprises through the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA). "By documenting best practices and success stories, it will serve as an essential resource for cooperative leaders, policymakers and stakeholders aiming to drive growth and sustainability within the sector," he highlighted, disclosing that the forthcoming publication will strengthen cooperative movements through capacity building, knowledge and guidance.
