The Co‐operative Movement and Development Administration
| Date | 01 October 1968 |
| Published date | 01 October 1968 |
| DOI | http://doi.org/10.1002/j.1099-162X.1968.tb00351.x |
| Author | R. C. Gates |
The
Co-operative Movement and
Development Administration
by
R.
C.
GATES
Mr.
Gates was formerly Commissioner for Co-operative
Development,
Malaya
and
Singapore
and
has subsequently
been
aco-operative expert with
F.A.O.,
with
United
States
AID
and
with the
Ministry
of
Overseas Development.
Much Development Aid is going to the improvement
of
rural life in
developing countries. Tractors, agricultural implements, stud cattle, rams,
boars, etc. are supplied to peasants and small farmers. Funds are provided
for credit purposes.
The
channel for such aid is through the central
governments of the developing countries. Criticism is often voiced regarding
mismanagement in the distribution of such aid. Channels are often lengthy,
complex and expensive. By the time the aid reaches the rural population
expenses have greatly reduced it and sometimes delays in the distribution
nullify its effectiveness.
In most developing countries, especially those in the Commonwealth, a
Co-operative Movement is in existence among the rural population. Many
different types of co-operatives have been formed, for it is by far the most
effective way for promoting the economic interests of a rural population.
The
supply
of
agricultural requirements, such as seed, fertilizers, imple-
ments, etc., the marketing of cash crops, especially for export, and the
provision of agricultural credit can all be effectively managed through
co-operatives.
Every Co-operative is managed democratically by the members themselves.
Their needs are quickly known through their co-operatives. In most
countries co-operatives are organized in the form of a pyramid.
The
primary
co-operatives at local level form themselves into a regional union or
association. These regional associations form themselves into a national
apex society.
Thus
the needs of the small farmer or peasant can readily be
made known to the central government and distribution of development
aid can rapidly, inexpensively and usually most effectivelybe made through
the Co-operative Movement.
Corruption is kept in checkby the watchfulnessof the members themselves
who are determined to get the maximum amount of the aid available, whether
it be for agricultural supplies or funds for credit.
Usually there is a good inspectorate and guidance service provided by the
Government Co-operative Department or by the Movement itself, where it
is well developed. Such a service provides the audit of the Movement and
keeps the accounts in order. It can ensure rapid and honest distribution
of
development funds for the rural population.
Co-operatives, at all levels, apex, regional and local, provide the most
admirable means for officers of the Development Administration and for
officers of all other Government Departments who have to deal with the
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