NCT's process to accelerate empowerment among its black members began in the 1980s with a major focus in the 1990s. For over 20 years, the Co-operative has been developing black members through the transfer of skills in all forestry facets which include management,technical, silviculture, harvesting and transport just to name a few.
Black members make up 30% of NCT’s membership. These members benefit directly as shareholders and part-owners of NCT. Black members share the same benefits as their white counterparts. They form an integral part of NCT and benefit directly as shareholders and part-owners of the Co-operative.
Their contribution to the overall performance of the Co-operative has been modest but significant.
The benefits the Co-operative offers its black members, among others, are:
Access to international and local markets.
Access to credit facilities where NCT handles all the risk.
Training and the transfer of skills through field days and publications.