The North West Cooperative Association (NWCA) Ltd concluded its General Assembly on Friday, April 5, 2024, at the association's headquarters in Mile III Nkwen. Following a preceding board of directors meeting, the General Assembly provided a platform for stakeholders to address key issues affecting the cooperative and its members.
Reports presented by various departments of NWCA Ltd, including the management report by the General Manager Waindim Timothy Ntam painted a picture of the ongoing challenges faced by the cooperative, notably the impact of the seven-year-old armed conflict on coffee production in the region. Instances of decreased coffee yields, attacks on members, harassment, and vandalism of union buildings were cited as detrimental factors. Additionally, the presence of Licensed Buying Agents (LBAs) was noted to have further disrupted the supply chain of coffee to the unions.
Addressing attendees, NWCA Ltd President Ndikwa Peter Bayo urged members to intensify coffee production efforts while remaining loyal to the cooperative. Bayo emphasized the benefits of association membership loyalty, highlighting NWCA Ltd's commitment to providing financial balances to farmers and offering subsidies and subventions for farm inputs, services not typically provided by LBAs.
A major highlight of both gatherings was the restitution delivered by the General Manager Waindim Timothy Ntam regarding his secondment program in Seoul, South Korea, spanning from November 2023 to February 2024. Participants lauded Ntam's detailed presentation, expressing appreciation for the insights gained and pledging to implement lessons learned to enhance the coffee cooperative movement in the region, particularly within NWCA Ltd.
The Supervisory Board of NWCA Ltd took the opportunity to commend the dedication and sacrifices made by the management and staff in ensuring the smooth operation and growth of the cooperative. Board President Bonnyuy Fabian praised General Manager Waindim Timothy Ntam, likening him to a "hunting dog" for the organization, acknowledging his pivotal role in steering NWCA Ltd towards its objectives.
As the General Assembly concluded, stakeholders departed with a renewed sense of purpose, tasked with the collective goal of overcoming regional challenges and revitalizing the coffee production sector within the cooperative. With determination and cooperation, NWCA Ltd aims to navigate the complexities ahead and continue serving the interests of its members and the community at large.