Perceptions of co-operative governing boards on their capabilities to initiate innovations in primary co-operative societies: a case of Kafue, Kabwe and Chilanga districts, Zambia

Abstract

This study was conducted to assess the perceptions of the governing boards (board members) of co- operative societies on their capabilities to initiate innovations in primary co-operative societies in Kabwe, Kafue and Chilanga Districts, Zambia. Quantitative data were collected using survey questionnaires administered to 70 board members. Purposive sampling was used to select participants. Qualitative data were collected using semi-structured interviews and Focus Group Discussions (FGDs). Data were analysed using Statistical Pack- age for Social Science (SPSS) computer programme. Likert scale and content analysis were used in the analysis of the qualitative data. Multivariate regression (using logit model) was used to test the extent to which some socio-demographic variables influence board members’ capabilities to instigate innovations in their primary co-operative societies. The study revealed that 68.9% of the interviewees said that they were capable of instigating innovations in their primary co-operative societies while 28.2% said they were not capable and the remaining 2.9% were of indifferent opinions regard- ing their capabilities to initiate innovations in their organizations. Innovations identified as originating from board members during this study include; formation of savings and credit groups, setting up of milk collection centers, collective drugs and livestock feeds outlets and out grower irrigation schemes among other innovations as detailed in this study. Despite a significant number of interviewees feeling that they were capable to undertake various innovations in their organizations, FGDs with the same interviewees indicated that they lacked necessary skills and funds to facilitate more innovations. Results further indicated that age, education level, trainings attended and perceptions of board members tested at (p< 0.05) indicated that there were no significant difference on such variables among primary co-operative societies where more innovations were recorded and those with little innovations taking place. Capacity building in terms of education, trainings and financial support were identified as key factors for encouraging internally initiated innovations in primary co-operative societies. This study calls for provision of innovations related education and trainings as well as providing necessary financial support to the governing boards of primary co- operative societies so that more innovations can be initiated in such organizations. The study also recommends that the government of Zambia and other key stakeholders collaborate to ensure formulation of innovation development policy which is currently nonexistent so that more innovations can be planned and implemented in primary co-operatives and other organizations. Inclusion of co-operative studies with innovation and entrepreneurship package in the current primary and secondary education curriculum is also recommended. Other recommendations are as detailed in this study.