The article looks at registering a co-operative company in Zimbabwe. Zimbabwe offers several company structures suited for different business goals, including Private Limited Companies (PLCs), Private Business Corporations (PBCs), and Co-operative Companies. Each structure is governed by its own regulatory framework and suits different types of entrepreneurs and sectors.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of registering a co-operative company in Zimbabwe, updated for 2025 in line with current laws and digital registration procedures.
What Is a Co-operative Company?
According to the Zimbabwean Companies and Other Business Entities Act [Chapter 24:31], a co-operative company is:
- A company, other than a private company, whose main objective is to provide its members with services that:
- Facilitate the production or marketing of agricultural produce or livestock, or
- Enable the sale of goods and services to its members.
- Additionally, a co-operative company:
- Has restricted share transfers;
- Issues only one class of ordinary shares;
- Limits shareholding per member;
- Distributes profits based on member participation;
- Caps dividends at 10% per annum;
- Regulates voting rights in line with section 39 of the Act.
This structure is designed to promote mutual benefit, economic democracy, and member participation over traditional profit-maximization.
Step-by-Step Process of Registering a Co-operative Company in 2025
1. Name Reservation (Online Portal Search)
All companies in Zimbabwe must start by reserving a name through the Companies Registry’s official online portal
- Submit at least 2-4 unique name options.
- Name approval usually takes 1–2 working days.
- Be cautious of restricted words (e.g., “Zimbabwe”, “Government”, “Council”) unless you have prior approval.
⚠️ Tip: Engage a registered consultant to speed up the process and avoid rejections.
2. Drafting the Memorandum and Articles of Association
For co-operatives, these documents must comply with the Companies Act and reflect:
- The specific co-operative objectives,
- Member rights and responsibilities,
- Voting structures,
- Profit-sharing mechanisms.
Since co-operatives have specific compliance requirements, it’s strongly recommended that a legal expert or consultant drafts these documents.
3. Completion of CR 6 (Physical Address Form)
- This form provides details of the company’s physical address.
- It must be signed by the secretary or director.
- You may use a residential address if you don’t yet have commercial premises.
4. Completion of CR 14 (Director & Secretary Details)
- This form lists all directors and the company secretary.
- Each person must provide a valid national ID or passport, address, and contact information.
5. Submission to the Registrar of Companies
Submit all required documents via the online portal or physically (if directed):
Required Documents:
- Name reservation approval (Name Confirmation Letter)
- Signed Memorandum and Articles of Association
- CR 6 Form (Address)
- CR 14 Form (Directors/Secretary)
- Copy of IDs and proof of residence for all directors
6. Certificate of Incorporation Issued
If all documents are in order:
- The Registrar of Companies will issue a Certificate of Incorporation.
- Processing time: 3–5 working days (longer during high-demand periods).
You are now officially recognized as a registered co-operative company in Zimbabwe!
Optional: Registration with ZIMRA and Other Authorities
Once registered, you may also need to:
- Register for ZIMRA Tax Clearance (ITF263);
- Apply for a Trade License from your local authority;
- Open a company bank account;
- Register for NSSA and NEC (depending on sector and number of employees).
Final Thoughts
Co-operative companies are ideal for collective farming, joint retail ventures, community savings groups, and shared resource initiatives. Their structure emphasizes mutual support, sustainable growth, and economic inclusion.
If you’re planning to register one in 2025, ensure your documentation is complete, compliant, and prepared by a professional to avoid delays.
