What the Project Was About

The Agriterra Support Project is part of Agriterra’s mission to strengthen farmer organisations and cooperatives by improving governance, business performance, service delivery, and sustainability. From 2017 to 2020, CAK received support focused on organizational development and governance enhancement. From 2020 to 2023, the project focused on developing sustainable business models for farmer organisations to enhance financial viability and competitiveness.

Purpose and Objectives

• Strengthen governance structures so cooperatives operate transparently, accountably, and effectively
• Enhance organisational performance through training and advisory services for board members and leadership
• Develop sustainable business models that help cooperatives generate stable incomes and improve member services
• Increase institutional capacity for better strategic planning and implementation of member-oriented services

Key Activities

• Governance training and coaching for CAK leadership, board members, and cooperative managers
• Organisational development support including strategic planning, operational systems, and leadership strengthening
• Business model development workshops to design services and revenue streams that are financially sustainable
• Capacity building and mentoring via expert advisory visits, peer exchanges, and coaching sessions
• Networking and knowledge sharing with other cooperatives and farmer organisations through Agriterra’s global network

Geographic and Institutional Focus

This support was tailored for the Co-operative Alliance of Kenya (CAK) and its member cooperatives, engaging multiple sectors such as dairy, coffee, and cereals across various counties in Kenya.

Impact and Strategic Importance

• Improved governance and decision-making under board and leadership structures
• Enhanced sustainability through financially viable business models
• Strengthened organisational capacity to serve members with inputs, market access, and extension support
• Access to broader networks and knowledge via Agriterra’s international cooperative advisory platforms