An Investigation into Strategies to Promote Co-operatives Growth and Resilience to Environmental Risks in Namibia

Abstract

The co-operatives are faced with various challenges and uncertain environmental risks that limit their abilities to succeed and grow. Even though co-operatives are considered the most effective private sector approach to poverty reduction, employment creation, wealth distribution, and economic inclusion of less privileged community members; a slow growth in the number of co-operatives registered in Namibia is observed. This study sought to explore the business environment risks commonly faced by cooperatives in Khomas, Otjozondjupa, and the Northern Central Regions (Oshikoto, Oshana, Omusati, and Ohangwena) and develop strategies to help them build long-term resilience to business environmental risks. The study adopted an interpretivism philosophy, embraced a qualitative research approach, and used a phenomenological research design. Purposive non-probability sampling technique was used in identifying and selecting the participants for the interviews. The collected data was analysed thematically. It was found that co-operatives are faced with financial constraints, lack of knowledge among co-operative members about the co-operative concept and seven principles of co-operatives, lack of conflict management, lack of access to land, insufficient potable water supply in the rural areas, and an increase in theft of co-operative assets in the study areas. Drought, disease outbreaks (Covid-19 and Foot and Mouth Disease), natural disasters (flood and wildfire), credit default, and locust outbreaks were found to be the common Business Environmental Risks experienced by co-operatives in Namibia. It was established that a lot needs to be done by both the Regulator and co-operatives themselves as they are both failing each other. To promote the growth of co-operatives, enhance their sustainability, and strengthen their resilience to crises, the study recommends that co-operative members should be encouraged to attend courses related to conflict management, risk management, and study the co-operative concept to master the seven principles of co-operatives. The government should continue rehabilitating, constructing, and excavating boreholes and earth dams to address water shortages. Financial providers should make their funds affordable and accessible to co-operatives. It further recommends co-operatives to develop and implement various strategies for coping with crises and promote growth.