Benso: The Benso Oil Palm Plantation (BOPP) Cooperative Credit Union Limited achieved substantial financial growth and stability in 2025, as revealed at its 10th Annual General Meeting. Mr. Melchizedek Tenkorang Oduro, the Board Chairman, shared that the Union's income rose significantly from GHS3.3 million in 2024 to GHS6.2 million in 2025, marking an approximately 90 percent increase. This growth was largely attributed to the effective recovery of interest on loans.
According to Ghana News Agency, the Union also bolstered its investment portfolio, increasing it from GHS4.05 million to GHS12.6 million, representing about a 211 percent rise. During the same period, loans totaling GHS31,016,056.71 were disbursed to members, indicating a robust lending program. Membership expanded from 5,328 in 2024 to 7,873 in 2025, reflecting a growth rate of approximately 48 percent.
The Credit Union also invested GHS65,216 in community-based projects and initiatives as part of its corporate social responsibility efforts, aiming to improve the lives of people within its operational areas. Despite challenges such as declining investment returns, rising operational costs, and issues with loan repayment and savings capacity among some members, the Union remains committed to strategic initiatives focused on digital transformation and community impact.
Professor Anthony Simons, the Western Regional Chairman of the Ghana Cooperative Credit Unions Association, emphasized the importance of credit unions in empowering communities and achieving financial stability. He highlighted the resilience of credit unions in Ghana since 1955 and encouraged the leadership to uphold cooperative values and good governance practices.
For the financial year 2025, the Board proposed a dividend of GHS0.12 per share, totaling GHS438,040.90. The event also recognized and awarded various categories, including Master Kwesi Asiedu Jnr and Ms. Christlove Asiedu as Best Kiddy Savers, Madam Ama Nkrumah as Top Female Saver, and Mr. Maxwell Martey as Top Male Saver. Ms. Leticia Asare and Mr. Godwin Mensah received awards for Highest Shareholders, while several staff members and branches were acknowledged for their exemplary performance.