ICA–Africa President’s Message on the International Day of Cooperatives

Dear Cooperators,

Today, we celebrate the 103rd International Cooperative Day and the 31st United Nations International Day of Cooperatives.

This year’s celebration, under the theme “Cooperatives: Driving Inclusive and Sustainable Solutions for a Better World,” holds exceptional significance. It coincides with the United Nations International Year of Cooperatives — a once-in-a-decade opportunity to amplify the visibility of the cooperative enterprise model as a proven, practical mechanism for inclusive and sustainable development.

Now, more than ever, our communities face economic challenges, climate threats, persistent inequalities and shameful poverty. Yet, in the face of these crises, cooperatives stand out as practical vehicles for change, deeply rooted in the principles of solidarity, democracy and inclusion.

Aligned with the global policy momentum of the Second World Summit for Social Development and the United Nations High-Level Political Forum, this year’s Coop Day Celebrations, give us a vital opportunity to showcase how cooperatives contribute meaningfully to the Sustainable Development Goals, promoting good health and well-being, gender equality, decent work, environmental stewardship and strong global partnerships.

Looking ahead, I am pleased to note that our commitment to driving transformative people-centered solutions, will gather even greater momentum this October at the Africa Ministerial Cooperative Conference (AMCCO).

The AMCCO is Africa’s premier continental platform for dialogue and action; bringing together Hon. Ministers responsible for cooperatives, senior government officials, cooperative leaders, development partners and other key stakeholders. Together, we will deliberate on forward-looking policy frameworks, strategies and innovations to secure the growth and sustainability of cooperatives across Africa continent. 

The upcoming AMCCO event presents a vital opportunity to consolidate the political will, strengthen strategic partnerships and champion bold actions that empower cooperatives to thrive in today’s dynamic socio-economic landscape.

I therefore warmly invite all of you to join us in Kenya for the AMCCO, as we reaffirm our collective support for cooperative leaders across African nations. Together, let us not only recognize their pivotal role in driving socio-economic development but also renew our commitment to deepening partnerships with government officials to further advance and expand the cooperative movement.

As we celebrate today, let us remember that the cooperative movement was born from a simple yet profound idea: that together, we can achieve what none of us can achieve alone. Today, that idea is more relevant and more powerful than ever before.

Let us recommit to telling our stories boldly, to investing in the people and partnerships that make cooperation possible and reminding the world that cooperatives are essential drivers in building inclusive and sustainable solutions for a better world.

Happy International Day of Cooperatives!

High Chief Oriyomi Ayeola

President, ICA-Africa