Title: Knowing Your Role: The Foundation of a Successful Co-operative

Good day, fellow co-operators, ladies and gentlemen,

It is an honour to be here today to speak on a subject that lies at the very heart of every successful co-operative: knowing your role.

In Africa, co-operatives have always been a way for ordinary people to pool their strengths, solve their problems, and build a better future together. Whether it’s in farming, housing, transport, or finance — the co-operative model works best when each person understands their responsibility and stays in their lane.

But far too often, we have seen confusion in co-ops: Board members who start managing staff directly, Managers who make decisions meant for the board, Members who think their job is to only show up once a year at the AGM.

This confusion leads to poor governance, internal conflict, and financial loss — not because the people are not capable, but because the roles are not clearly understood or respected.

Let’s break this down:

1. The Role of the Board of Directors:- The board is the governing body of the co-operative. Its job is to provide strategic direction and make sure the co-op stays true to its mission. The board does not manage day-to-day operations — that’s for the management team. Instead, the board must: Set policies, Hire and supervise the general manager, Approve budgets, and Monitor performance. In short, the board governs. It does not interfere with daily transactions or micromanage staff.

2. The Role of Management:- Management is responsible for the day-to-day execution of the board’s decisions. They run the business, serve the members, handle operations, and lead the staff. They report to the board and follow approved policies. Their strength lies in operational leadership — they make things happen.

3. The Role of the Supervisory Committee:- This is the watchdog of the co-operative. They ensure compliance, review finances, and make sure both board and management are working in line with the by-laws. Their job is not to control but to oversee and report. They help keep the co-op honest, transparent, and accountable.

4. The Role of Members:- And what about the members — the true owners of the co-op? Members are not passive spectators. They must: Attend meetings, Elect leaders wisely, Hold them accountable, and Participate in decisions that affect the direction of the co-op.

A silent membership leads to weak co-operatives. A strong, active membership builds resilience.

So, why does all this matter? Because when roles are respected: Decisions are faster and more effective, Conflict is reduced, Trust is built, And ultimately, the co-operative grows.

But when roles are confused, the co-operative becomes dysfunctional. People start blaming each other, members lose confidence, and good leaders resign in frustration.

Let me leave you with this: “Structure before success.”

No matter how big your dreams are for your co-operative — whether it’s expanding to new markets, increasing member benefits, or investing in new technology — you must begin with structure and clarity of roles.

Let us build co-operatives where everyone knows their role, plays their part, and respects the process. That is the only way we will create sustainable, African-owned institutions that serve generations to come.

Thank you.