Over the past decade, the North West Cooperative Association (NWCA) has established strategic partnerships and gained global recognition, significantly boosting its operations and market presence.
Under the leadership of General Manager Waindim Timothy Ntam, NWCA has forged relationships with international organizations and foreign buyers, positioning itself as a key player in the global coffee industry.
Forging international partnerships
NWCA’s affiliation with prominent international organizations has opened doors for capacity-building opportunities and global recognition. The association is a member of the International Cooperative Alliance (ICA), International Cooperative Agricultural Organization (ICAO), African Fine Coffee Association, and Consumer Cooperative Worldwide where the General Manager is an executive member.
Waindim Timothy Ntam, NWCA Ltd General Manager with ICAO officials
“These partnerships have provided us with numerous opportunities for training and capacity building, enhancing our operations and market competitiveness,” the General Manager affirmed
The recent win of the ICAO 10,000 Euros regional project is an indicator to NWCA’s growing influence and commitment to excellence. This achievement highlights the association’s ability to compete on a global scale and reinforces its reputation as a leader in the coffee industry.
Expanding market reach and securing fair prices
NWCA’s strategic partnerships with foreign buyers have been instrumental in expanding its market reach and securing fair prices for its coffee. The association has established relationships with top buyers such as Waltar Mattar in Switzerland, VIATRE Co in South Korea, and INTAFRI Coffee LLC in Japan. These partnerships have resulted in increased sales and competitive prices, ensuring that farmers receive fair compensation for their produce.
“Our relationships with foreign buyers have been crucial in sustaining our growth and ensuring fair prices for our farmers,” Waindim Timothy emphasized.
Despite the ongoing armed conflict in the region, NWCA has managed to grow its sales from FCFA 130.6 million in 2013 to nearly FCFA 400 million in 2014, with a peak of FCFA 942 million in 2016. This growth proves the association’s resilience and strategic market expansion efforts.
Visit of Agriculture Minister, Mbairobe GabrielStrengthening relationships with government and community
NWCA’s strong relationship with MINADER and related government services has also played a crucial role in its success. The association has received periodic support in the form of subventions, farm inputs, and capacity building from the government. The Honourable Minister of Agriculture has visited NWCA twice, emphasizing the government’s recognition of NWCA’s contributions to the agricultural sector.
“Our cordial relationship with MINADER and other government services has been instrumental in our growth and success,” Waindim Timothy admitted.
Coffee pickers
NWCA’s commitment to corporate social responsibility has further strengthened its relationship with the community. The association has provided potable drinking water to the community around its Mile III Nkwen head office and supported over 200 IDPs by offering them temporary jobs as coffee pickers. These initiatives have improved living standards and reinforced NWCA’s role as a socially responsible organization.
Future prospects and continued growth
Looking ahead, NWCA aims to build on its achievements and continue its trajectory of growth and innovation. The association is exploring new projects and programs to diversify its operations and enhance its market presence. The Banana Plantain Project is one such initiative, promising to contribute significantly to NWCA’s revenue stream.
Ndikwa Peter Bayo, President BoD NWCA Ltd NWCA’s focus on technological advancements, strategic partnerships, and community empowerment will continue to drive its success. With a strong foundation built over the past decade, NWCA is well-positioned to navigate future challenges and seize new opportunities, ensuring sustainable growth and prosperity for its over 35000 farmers and the community.
Despite these achievements, NWCA's leadership remains concerned about declining coffee production.
“The essence of of our recent coordination workshop is to identify issues and propose measures to enhance coffee collection and improve farmer livelihoods,” NWCA Ltd President Ndikwa Peter Bayo said during the workshop adding "Our production continues to decline at an alarming rate. We must focus on creating actionable solutions for the Board."