Committee Chair Emphasizes Need for Increased Cooperative Development in Barbados.

The International Year of Co-operatives (IYC) 2025, themed “Co-operatives Build A Better World,” is gaining momentum in Barbados, with a strong emphasis on promoting the co-operative model and its potential to empower various sectors. Algernon Johnson, Co-Chair of the IYC 2025 Committee, has issued a call to action, urging individuals in diverse fields, such as fishermen and food vendors, to embrace the power of non-financial co-operatives. He highlights the inherent advantages of collective action, emphasizing that pooling resources enables members to access bulk purchasing opportunities, thereby reducing costs and enhancing their economic viability. Johnson underscores the pitfalls of individualistic approaches, advocating for collaborative efforts as a pathway to greater success and sustainability. This call reflects a broader strategy to expand the reach of co-operatives beyond traditional financial institutions and demonstrates the IYC 2025 Committee’s commitment to fostering inclusive and diverse co-operative landscapes.

The IYC 2025 Committee in Barbados is prioritizing public education as a cornerstone of its strategy. Brent Gittens, Registrar of the Co-operatives Department, stresses the importance of raising awareness about the co-operative movement and its potential benefits. The Committee’s focus this year is to disseminate information and educate the public about the principles and advantages of co-operatives. This educational drive will leverage existing national initiatives, aligning with the “We Gatherin’ 2025” campaign, a national initiative designed to foster community engagement and development. By integrating their outreach within this broader framework, the IYC 2025 Committee aims to reach a wider audience and effectively communicate the transformative potential of co-operatives across the island’s parishes. Furthermore, a community development program is in development, promising a more structured and comprehensive approach to educating the public about co-operatives.

Active participation and collaboration are central to the IYC 2025 celebrations. Oriel Doyle, Chair of the IYC 2025 Committee, extends an invitation to all co-operative members to contribute their insights and suggestions for commemorating the year. This inclusive approach aims to harness the collective wisdom and creativity within the co-operative sector to ensure a meaningful and impactful celebration. The Committee encourages members to submit their ideas via email, establishing a platform for open communication and fostering a sense of shared ownership in shaping the IYC 2025 activities. This collaborative approach underscores the democratic principles underpinning the co-operative movement, empowering members to actively participate in shaping its future.

The IYC 2025 activities extend beyond mere celebration, encompassing a critical review of the co-operative landscape and the development of strategic recommendations. A symposium scheduled for March 5th will serve as a platform for in-depth analysis of the entire co-operative movement in Barbados. This comprehensive review will provide valuable insights into the sector’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and challenges. The discussions aim to generate actionable recommendations to enhance the effectiveness and sustainability of co-operatives. This forward-looking approach signifies the IYC 2025 Committee’s commitment to not only commemorating the past but also to shaping a brighter future for the co-operative movement.

The IYC 2025 Committee’s multi-pronged strategy reflects a deep understanding of the diverse needs and potential within the co-operative sector. By focusing on education, collaboration, and strategic review, the Committee aims to strengthen the existing co-operative ecosystem and pave the way for future growth. The call to action for non-financial co-operatives, the emphasis on public awareness campaigns, and the invitation for member participation demonstrate a commitment to inclusivity and broad-based engagement. This holistic approach recognizes the transformative potential of co-operatives to contribute to both social and economic development in Barbados.

The ultimate goal of the IYC 2025 activities in Barbados is to foster a thriving and resilient co-operative sector that contributes meaningfully to the nation’s overall development. By empowering individuals, strengthening communities, and promoting sustainable economic growth, co-operatives are envisioned as vital building blocks for a better world. The IYC 2025 Committee’s efforts are geared towards realizing this vision, working to ensure that co-operatives play a central role in shaping a more prosperous and equitable future for Barbados. The initiative’s success will depend on the active participation of all stakeholders, including government agencies, co-operative members, and the wider community. The IYC 2025 serves as a catalyst, igniting renewed interest and investment in the co-operative model as a powerful tool for positive change.