Socio-demographic Characteristics of Co-operatives Governing Boards and its Influence on Innovations Design: A Case of Chilanga, Kabwe and Kafue Districts, Zambia

Abstract

This paper assessed the influence of socio-demographic characteristics of cooperatives governing boards on innovations design. The study was conducted in Kafue, Kabwe and Chilanga Districts, Zambia. Qualitative data were collected using semi-structured interview guide and focus group discussions and were analyzed using content analysis. Quantitative data were collected using questionnaires and were analyzed using statistical package for social science computer program. The study revealed that, studied co-operatives rely mainly on one’s degree of trustworthiness as a key attribute for a leadership post than on other important attributes like academic qualifications, expertise, exposure, etc. It was also revealed that age, education level and trainings attended by the respondents had no influence on innovations design. Furthermore, governing boards’ exposure, number of members who actively access services, innovation support provided and motivational packages offered had significant influence on innovations design in studied co-operatives. This paper recommends that given the current global demand for innovative leadership and governance, professional attributes are important for one to be elected a leader in cooperatives. Co-operative education and training is also emphasized to members and leaders to make them aware of the current global requirements for professional leadership among other recommendations as detailed in this paper.