By Betrand Ntumnyuy
The Guneku Cooperative Credit Union (GUNECCUL) held its Second Annual General Meeting (AGM) at the Guneca Hall in Bonaberi, Douala, on Sunday, March 9, 2025. The event brought together members, board directors, and management staff to discuss the union’s progress, challenges, and future plans.
In an exclusive interview with our reporter, the Chairperson of the Board of Directors, Ngati Bah Gerald, expressed his satisfaction with the meeting’s outcome. “We were impressed with the members who attended and participated fully. The major resolutions we took pleased me so much, especially the one on education. Many members showed interest in learning more about the credit union and how it works.”
Gerald emphasized the importance of education in the credit union’s growth, stating that it would help reduce errors and costs associated with ignorance. He also addressed the misconception that GUNECCUL is only for the sons and daughters of Guneka a village in Momo Division of the North West Region. “We have been working with other credit unions, and our doors are open to everyone. We welcome members from all regions and clans.”
Fokun Roland, the Manager of GUNECCUL, highlighted the challenges the union faces, particularly in educating members about credit unionism. “If we can get members to understand how credit unions function, I believe it will be a better investment for them. The credit union was structured for the less privileged, but unfortunately, the rich tend to benefit more from it.”
Roland encouraged members to take loans, emphasizing that lending is the main source of income for the union. “There is strength in numbers, and if members don’t take loans, it means they are not providing an enabling environment for their own union to grow.”
Asukwa Victor, the Vice Chair of the Board of Directors, praised the meeting’s success, stating that it brought to light many important issues and helped members understand their role in GUNECCUL. “We are looking forward to more members joining and bringing others to affiliate with GUNECCUL, so we can build and grow together.”
The meeting also featured testimonials from satisfied members, including Asukua Cynthia, a youth member from Boya, who encouraged her peers to join GUNECCUL. “It has a lot to teach you, to make you grow, and to show you how to invest. I’ve already benefited from it, and I want to encourage others to register.”
Pastor Aloys Nkwetta, a member of GUNECCUL’s Douala branch, praised the meeting’s organization and encouraged would-be members to join. “I brought some members, and they decided to join. I will bring more, and I encourage others to do the same.”
During the AGM, several presentations were made, including the presentation of the report from the Board of Directors, another from the Supervisory Board, a presentation of the accounts, and an internal audit report. The 2025 budget for the credit union was also adopted by the General Assembly.
A representative from RECCUCAM, the mother cooperative credit union, attended to encourage members to take their responsibilities seriously. The cooperative members expressed satisfaction with the credit union’s progress compared to the previous year.
The Second Annual General Meeting of GUNECCUL demonstrated the union’s commitment to transparency, education, and growth. With its doors open to everyone, GUNECCUL is poised to continue making a positive impact on its members and the community.
