Over 250 cooperative leaders have undergone intensive training in financial literacy, governance, leadership, and risk management, thanks to a new capacity-building initiative by CIC Insurance Group. The training took place during the 2025 National Cooperative Leaders Summit held in Nairobi and marks a significant step in strengthening the country’s cooperative movement.
Themed “Promoting Sustainable Cooperative Enterprises,” the summit brought together SACCO executives, policymakers, and industry stakeholders to discuss strategies for sustaining and scaling Kenya’s cooperative economy. The training is part of CIC’s broader target to train at least 5,000 cooperative leaders across the country by the end of the year.
Speaking at the event, CIC Insurance Group CEO Patrick Nyaga said the company was committed to supporting cooperatives beyond traditional insurance. “As we mark the International Year of Cooperatives in 2025, our role goes beyond providing insurance solutions. We are here to build capacity, support innovation, and foster long-term sustainability,” he said.
Cabinet Secretary for Cooperatives and MSMEs Development FCPA Dr. Wycliffe Oparanya, who officiated the summit, emphasized the critical role cooperatives play in economic resilience and financial inclusion. “Cooperatives are vital tools for financial inclusion. We must focus on enhancing governance, managing risk, and embracing digital transformation to ensure sustainability,” he said.
The cooperative sector in Kenya continues to be a major contributor to the national economy, with over 14 million members and assets exceeding KES 1 trillion. SACCOs are responsible for mobilizing a significant portion of the country’s savings and have become a key source of affordable credit, especially for informal and underserved communities.
Participants at the summit were taken through practical modules on financial planning, budgeting, internal controls, leadership ethics, and fraud mitigation. There was also emphasis on adapting to the regulatory environment, including the anticipated enactment of the Cooperatives Bill, which is expected to tighten oversight of SACCO operations.
“We’ve struggled with issues like member education and risk planning, but this training gave us clarity and a roadmap,” said Mary Wanjiku, chair of Kipevu SACCO. “The sessions on digital transformation were particularly timely—we’re already planning to roll out mobile-first services.”
Commissioner for Cooperatives David Obonyo noted that the future of SACCOs lies in embracing technology and professionalizing leadership. “What worked in 2010 won’t work in 2025. SACCOs must innovate, adopt new technologies, and strengthen their internal structures,” he said.
PS Patrick Kilemi added that cooperatives must align themselves with national development goals, including support for SMEs, affordable housing, and agricultural productivity.
CIC Insurance has long been a key player in the cooperative space, offering products and services tailored for the unique needs of SACCOs. Its renewed focus on leadership development and risk management comes at a time when many cooperatives are navigating economic headwinds and increased scrutiny from regulators.
The summit concluded with a call for cooperative leaders to prioritize transparency, build digital capacity, and foster a culture of continuous learning among board members and staff.
With more training sessions lined up throughout the year, CIC aims to empower SACCOs to become not just financially sound, but resilient institutions that can serve their members sustainably for years to come.
