Perceived Influence of Board Characteristics on Effectiveness of Board Performance: Evidence from Rural Agricultural Marketing Co-operative Societies in Kaliua District, Tanzania

Agricultural Marketing Co-operative Societies (AMCOS) are known for their contribution to the world economy. While the success of AMCOS depends on the effectiveness of board members in executing its roles, the effectiveness of board members on the other hand depends on characteristics possessed by the board. This study analysed the boards’ characteristics and perceived effectiveness among rural AMCOS in Kaliua district, Tanzania. using cross-sectional survey design, data were collected from eight randomly selected AMCOS with a total sample size of 50 respondents, of whom 40 were board members, and 10 were key informants. A structured questionnaire was employed to gather quantitative data, whereas an interview guide for key informants was utilised to obtain qualitative data. The quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics, and the qualitative data were examined through thematic analysis. Findings reported that boards had a mix of effective and ineffective characteristics. On one side, the average chairperson’s age, board members’ age, tenure and board size reflect effective board characteristics. On the other hand, board members' gender (female percentage), average chairperson’s education, average board members’ education, meeting attendance, and training frequency reflect ineffective board characteristics. It was concluded that although AMCOS in the study area had a mix of board characteristics, the ineffective characteristics (57%) dominated over the effective ones. Based on the study’s findings, it is recommended that AMCOS should allocate enough funds for regular board training on various aspects including cooperative governance to improve their leadership knowledge, skills, and competence. In addition, awareness campaigns should be conducted by AMCOS to encourage female members to participate in AMCOS leadership positions (board members). Sensitisation campaigns should also encourage young AMCOS members with secondary and tertiary education to contest for board member positions. The study also recommends a review of cooperative legislation to enforce appropriate board characteristics including board members’ gender diversity, education level and training among others.