What are the procedures for registering a cooperative in Tanzania under the legislation acts of 2015 and 2013?

To register a cooperative in Tanzania under the legislation acts of 2015 and 2013, the following procedures need to be followed:

1. Choose a unique name for the cooperative that is not already in use by another organization.

2. Prepare the necessary documents, including the cooperative bylaws, minutes of the first meeting, and a list of members.

3. Submit the documents to the Registrar of Cooperatives along with the registration fee.

4. The Registrar will review the documents and issue a certificate of registration if everything is in order.

5. Once the cooperative is registered, it can start operating and conducting its business activities.

6. The cooperative must also comply with the ongoing reporting and compliance requirements set out in the legislation acts, including submitting annual reports and financial statements to the Registrar.

It is important to note that the specific requirements and procedures for registering a cooperative may vary depending on the type of cooperative and the location in Tanzania. It is recommended to consult with a legal advisor or the Registrar of Cooperatives for more detailed information on the registration process.

Procedures for Registering a Cooperative in Tanzania

Under Tanzania Cooperative Societies Act, 2013 and Cooperative Societies (Amendment) Act, 2015

Step 1: Formation

- Convene a meeting of at least 10 persons of similar economic interest to form a cooperative society.
- Prepare a draft constitution in accordance with the Act and Regulations.
- Elect a provisional committee to manage the society until registration is complete.

Step 2: Submission of Application

- Complete and submit an application form to the Registrar of Cooperatives at the Cooperative Development Commission (CDC).
- Attach the following documents:
- Draft constitution
- Minutes of the meeting where the society was formed
- List of members and their contributions
- Names and addresses of the provisional committee members
- Financial statement (if any)

Step 3: Scrutiny and Inspection

- The Registrar examines the application and supporting documents for completeness and compliance with the Act.
- If satisfied, the Registrar may conduct an inspection of the proposed area of operation of the society.

Step 4: Approval and Registration

- If the Registrar approves the application, a certificate of registration will be issued.
- The society becomes a legal entity upon registration.

Step 5: Post-Registration Requirements

- Within 3 months of registration, the society must hold an inaugural general meeting to elect a permanent committee.
- File an annual return with the Registrar within 12 months after the end of its financial year.
- Comply with the provisions of the Cooperative Societies Act and Regulations.

Additional Provisions for Cooperative Formation

- The cooperative must be formed for a purpose that is not contrary to public interest.
- The members must have a common economic interest.
- The cooperative must have at least 10 members at the time of registration.
- The cooperative must have a share capital, which may be subscribed by the members in equal or unequal amounts.
- The cooperative must have a clear and defined area of operation.

Note: The specific procedures may vary depending on the type of cooperative being registered. It is advisable to consult with the Cooperative Development Commission for the most up-to-date information and guidance.