These are the principles of co-operatives and form the foundation of the movement. I regard Education, Training and Information as the most important principles of co-operatives!!

1. S T E P H E N M W A N G I
C O - O P E R A T I V E O F F I C E R
CO-OPERATIVE PRINCIPLES

2. (a) Voluntary and open membership
The society shall always be
guided by the principle of
voluntary and open membership
in its member recruitment drives
without political, ethnic,
religious, gender or social
discrimination.

3. (b) Democratic member control
The society will be fully
controlled by members who
will have equal voting rights
on the basis of one member
one vote.

4. (c) Economic participation by member
Members shall contribute
equitably to the capital of
the society and share in the
results of its operations.

5. (d) Autonomy and independence
The society shall operate on
mutually acceptable terms
with its stakeholders who will
ensure its autonomy and
independence.

6. (e) Education, training and information
The society shall foster reciprocal,
on–going education programs for
members, leaders, staff and the
community so that they can teach
and learn from each other or from
the appropriate resource persons in
understanding and carrying out their
respective roles.

7. (f) Co-operation among co-operatives
In order to better serve the
interests of the members and the
community, the society shall
actively co-operate with other co-
operatives locally, regionally,
nationally and internationally.

8. (g) Concern for community in General
The society shall show
concern to the community
in which it exists and
operates.

9. THE END