Over the past decade, the North West Cooperative Association (NWCA) has established strategic partnerships and gained global recognition, significantly boosting its operations and market presence.
Under the leadership of General Manager Waindim Timothy Ntam, NWCA has forged relationships with international organizations and foreign buyers, positioning itself as a key player in the global coffee industry.
Forging international partnerships
NWCA’s affiliation with prominent international organizations has opened doors for capacity-building opportunities and global recognition. The association is a member of the International Cooperative Alliance (ICA), International Cooperative Agricultural Organization (ICAO), African Fine Coffee Association, and Consumer Cooperative Worldwide where the General Manager is an executive member.
Waindim Timothy Ntam, NWCA Ltd General Manager with ICAO officials
“These partnerships have provided us with numerous opportunities for training and capacity building, enhancing our operations and market competitiveness,” the General Manager affirmed
The recent win of the ICAO 10,000 Euros regional project is an indicator to NWCA’s growing influence and commitment to excellence. This achievement highlights the association’s ability to compete on a global scale and reinforces its reputation as a leader in the coffee industry.
Expanding market reach and securing fair prices
NWCA’s strategic partnerships with foreign buyers have been instrumental in expanding its market reach and securing fair prices for its coffee. The association has established relationships with top buyers such as Waltar Mattar in Switzerland, VIATRE Co in South Korea, and INTAFRI Coffee LLC in Japan. These partnerships have resulted in increased sales and competitive prices, ensuring that farmers receive fair compensation for their produce.
“Our relationships with foreign buyers have been crucial in sustaining our growth and ensuring fair prices for our farmers,” Waindim Timothy emphasized.
Despite the ongoing armed conflict in the region, NWCA has managed to grow its sales from FCFA 130.6 million in 2013 to nearly FCFA 400 million in 2014, with a peak of FCFA 942 million in 2016. This growth proves the association’s resilience and strategic market expansion efforts.