Over the years, Bandari Sacco has witnessed a notable shift in delegates’ grasp of society’s matters with members boasting of improved standards and efficiency following consistent training workshops aimed at adequately equipping the leaders with essential skills and knowledge to sustainably run the society, propelling it to become one of the most profitable and well managed saccos in coast region and the country.
Speaking during the recent delegates training meeting held on 27th April, Bandari Sacco’s CEO Mr. Joseph Bee said the sacco values the power of education because it leads to perfection of delegates’ responsibilities which is a crucial element for sacco’s growth, including membership expansion, increased deposits, share capital, and loan book growth.
Dr. Ng’ang’a Gachara, a seasoned business consultant from Strategic Fluent Analytica Limited, said delegates remain to be the most important organ for any organization. Insisting therefore that the general well-being of the sacco demands a careful approach in navigating the ever-changing landscape of the sacco business market.
Dr. Gachara underscored the need for foresight and tactical measures by the board of management and delegates to ensure the sacco’s viability and profitability amidst economic fluctuations.
“The sacco market is constantly influenced by economic forces, necessitating proactive measures from stakeholders,” remarked Dr. Gachara.
Adapting to a dynamic business environment requires setting achievable long-term goals and strategic uniqueness. He stressed the importance of a “golden sacco “ perspective, where customers are attracted to the value of products and services offered rather than just price.
“When customers draw value of any kind from Bandari Sacco, they will need more because it brings a positive impact to their lives,” he advised, urging the delegates to focus on seizing the business class from the grassroots arguing that it has the category of customers willing to join the sacco and build their wealth.
Saccos, he says, go through several challenges just like most businesses do. However, he adds that challenges should be used as reminders that something has to be worked on even more.
“Challenges such as poor communication, lack of product knowledge, self-doubt, and member dissatisfaction are among the barriers to effective delegate performance,” Gachara said. Setting a positive example, promoting discipline, and actively recruiting new members are the most effective strategies to motivate others and foster growth.
The Mombasa County Cooperative Director Mr. Nelson Nyoro lectured on the importance of unity and convergence of interests among delegates, stressing that the behavior exhibited by delegates mirrors the Sacco’s future trajectory.
“Change starts with the delegates. Their actions and attitudes shape the Sacco’s direction,” Nyoro asserted.
Furthermore, fostering candid communication among members and departments, enhances trust and ensures informed decision-making. However, he warned that the dangers of uninformed decision-making can have a far-reaching negative impact thus have to be avoided.
Additionally, he hinted that another imperative aspect saccos need to focus on is understanding customer needs to prevent mass exodus from the sacco.
“The reality is that businesses must make decisions based on accurate insights into consumer behavior in order to thrive,” counseled Nyoro.
In his congratulatory remarks, Bandari Sacco’s Chairman Ken Sungu expressed gratitude to the delegates for their participation, highlighting its importance in governance amidst major transformations in investment and technology.
“Our sacco is undergoing major transformation in investment and technology. This training is aimed at empowering all our delegates on the requisite skills which are critical in governance of the sacco,” Mr. Sungu said.
Meanwhile, the Sacco CEO endorsed a proposal by the delegates to increase minimum investment shares for delegates and members, citing potential benefits in enhancing the sacco’s liquidity base and ensuring financial stability.
“Investing more into the sacco ensures our members a secure retirement package and strengthens our financial foundation,” Bee affirmed.
The training session concluded with a renewed commitment from delegates to uphold best practices, embrace change, and steer Bandari Sacco towards sustained growth and prosperity in the dynamic sacco business landscape.
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