An Investigation of the Impact of Co-Operative Movement in Rural Development in Kenya

Abstract

The study’s overall objective was to investigate the impact of Co-operative movements in rural development in Kenya. The study was descriptive in nature. The researcher used structured questionnaires and face to face interviews especially where the respondents may not have time to complete the structured questionnaires. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics involving percentages and charts. The study found out that Agricultural cooperatives have played significant roles in reducing unemployment problem in the study area by generating permanent and temporary employment to both skilled and unskilled individuals, providing credit- and/or grant-based financial support to unemployed people, which enable them to engage in micro and small activities, and building the confidence and awareness of the local people. Agricultural cooperatives have also made vital roles in protecting the environment from degradation through making their members conscious on the impact/effect of environmental degradation and undertaking various environmental rehabilitation initiatives.