Membership Eligibility and Fees
Membership in Kopito Women Foundation is open to Indigenous women aged 18 and above who agree to abide by the group’s constitution and rules. To become a member, individuals must pay:
- A non-refundable registration fee of KES 100.
- An annual membership fee of KES 200.
- A monthly contribution of at least KES 500, as determined by the General Meeting.
Members who relocate may continue their membership by maintaining monthly contributions and attending meetings when possible. Members acquiring loans must provide a guarantor from within the group. Each member must nominate a next of kin to inherit their rights, privileges, and investments in the event of their passing.
Suspension and Expulsion
Members may face suspension or expulsion if their conduct harms the group’s reputation or violates the constitution. The disciplinary committee, comprising the Chairlady, Secretary, Treasurer, and an elected member, will review such cases.
- Suspension lasts two months, during which members lose access to group benefits.
- At the next General Meeting, a two-thirds majority vote will decide whether to expel the member or lift the suspension upon payment of a KES 1,000 fine, plus any outstanding contributions.
- Expelled members are not entitled to refunds of any contributions made to the group.
Governance and Office Bearers
The group is governed by a Central Management Committee, elected every three years at the Annual General Meeting (AGM). The committee includes:
- Chairlady: Presides over meetings and signs bank transactions.
- Project Coordinator: Oversees project implementation and identifies growth opportunities.
- Secretary: Manages correspondence, records, and meeting notices; signs bank transactions.
- Assistant Secretary: Supports the Secretary and assumes their duties in their absence.
- Treasurer: Handles financial transactions, maintains accounts, and signs bank transactions.
- Organizing Secretary: Coordinates activities, recruits members, and manages meeting logistics.
Office bearers who miss three consecutive meetings without valid reasons will lose their positions. Resignations require three months’ written notice. Vacancies are filled through elections at the AGM or a special meeting.
Meetings
The group holds three types of meetings:
- Executive and Sub-Committee Meetings: Held twice a year for office bearers to discuss group matters.
- General Meetings: Monthly and annual meetings for all members to review progress and make major decisions, including constitutional amendments.
- Impromptu Meetings: Convened as needed for urgent matters.
Financial Management and Audits
The Treasurer maintains accurate financial records, which are open for inspection by members and external auditors. An auditor, appointed annually at the AGM, certifies the group’s accounts. Financial statements are prepared four to eight weeks before the AGM.
Constitutional Amendments
The constitution is the supreme law of Kopito Women Foundation. Amendments require approval by a two-thirds majority at a General Meeting and take effect immediately, provided they comply with government regulations.
Resource Mobilization and Procurement
A Procurement and Resource Mobilization Committee, comprising the Chairlady, Project Coordinator, Treasurer, and two elected members, oversees fundraising and resource optimization. The committee reports its activities to the group regularly.
Liability
Kopito Women Foundation is not liable for losses or damages incurred by members during group activities, except where caused by the group’s negligence. Members participate at their own risk.
Resolution
Any disputes arising from membership or group activities will be resolved through internal discussion at General Meetings. If unresolved, the matter may be referred to a neutral mediator agreed upon by the group.
Contact Information
For inquiries or clarification regarding these terms and conditions, please contact us at:
Kopito Women Foundation
Nkareta Ward, Narok County, Kenya
[email protected] / +254701569335
By participating in Kopito Women Foundation’s activities or becoming a member, you agree to abide by these terms and conditions.