Assessment of Community Development Practices: The Role of “Kale Heywot” Church Development Program in Selected Project Areas of “Gamo Goffa” Zones, Southern Nations, Nationalities And People Region
No Thumbnail Available
Date
2018-06
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Addis Ababa University
Abstract
Despite the above efforts that have been made, experiences of KHCSWZDP in relation to genuine community participation, implementation process, decision making, project sustainability and partnership with other development actors are still under question. In addition in respect of EKHC the perception of local community was not fully grasped. Moreover, socio-economic benefits of its project are still under question. So, this study was believed to bridge the gap through focusing on assessing the role of the “Kale Heywot” Church Development program in terms of community participation and projects sustainability for target groups in South West Zone of “Gamo Goffa” zone. This research followed mixed-methods descriptive-design approach. Accordingly, observations, In-depth interview, focus group discussions and structured and semi-structured questionnaires were used to gather information. The findings have shown that the “Kale Heywot” church of south-west zone development program has played a significant role in terms of community development. Moreover, its development approach is responsive to local needs and able to mobilize resources to support the poor, so that through empowerment and participation they will be released from the deprivation trap that they find themselves. The study also reveals that the KHCSWZDP has good linkages and network with other communities and partners. However, the study indicated that the intensity of community participation in decision-making is still low in certain cases. Meanwhile, the beneficiaries did not show a clear understanding of aspects such as project ownership. Finally, this study recommends that community participation should be maintained because it is the core activity contributing to beneficiary’s employment and grassroots institutional empowerment and an essential ingredient for sustainability of any development initiatives.
Key words: KHCSWZ and KHC SWZDP