Abstract

The active participation of community members in their own development is widely seen to be positively correlated to project success and sustainability. Not surprisingly, therefore, development actors in the form of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) have incorporated participatory approaches and principles into their plans, strategies and programmes. The translation of these in practice, however, has varied owing to various contextual factors. This study sought to unravel factors that influenced the degree of community participation of an NGO facilitated project, the Mpamba-Chikwina Integrated Fish Farming Project. Adopting a qualitative research design to achieve this goal, the study assessed the extent of community participation from the pre-planning to evaluation stages; mechanisms put in place to promote participation; challenges encountered in promoting participation; and the role of various actors in ensuring community participation. The degrees and kinds of participation were determined using a framework devised to act as a reference point for categorization of various characteristics of actions and behaviours identified in the social interaction. Rich data in a descriptive and explanatory form was generated and analyzed using a content analysis method. The study identified poor communication and deliberate distortion of information; inconsistencies in plan implementation; untimely and/or lack of responsiveness; insensitivity to social and cultural attitudes, beliefs and norms; lack of community commitment; among others, as factors that impacted negatively on the nature of participation. On the other hand, training of farmers; setting up structures for representation; annual project reviews and distribution of project materials were seen to have promoted participation.

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School	: School of Humanities and Social Sciences
Issued Date	: 2013

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