Community Development Projects Research Articles

Action Research in Agricultural Development Projects: Case Study of a Dairy Project in Ethiopia

AbstractFor development projects, an action research approach is often encouraged to enhance participation of end-users or beneficiaries at various stages of the project to realize the desired social transformation in the target communities. The project under consideration in this study adopted action research for some of its activities. A review of the project action research activities was conducted as part of the strategic reflection for lesson learning and to inform modification where necessary. The objectives of this study were (i) to assess the relevance of action research approach to implementation of project activities and, (ii) to draw lessons for agricultural development projects applying participatory approaches. Fifty-one participants involved in the project action research activities were interviewed on their understanding of action research, its strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats, and level of participation in action research activities. The perception of the participants interviewed regarding action research approach was that it is relevant and important for the project, and that it has provided a good platform for learning by all participants. Some key lessons from this study for development projects when applying action research approach include the need to focus on a limited number of issues or activities that can produce social transformation in the target communities, and the necessity of adequate planning for monitoring and documentation of learning by participants. From our study, action research is a pertinent approach in community development projects, but it should be well-planned to achieve the desired objective of social transformation in the target communities.

Corporate Social Responsibility in the Mining Industry: Exploring Perspectives of Host Communities in a Developing Country

This paper aims to explore the social and environmental issues that are of priority/importance to the mining host communities in a developing country-Ghana. To explore the social and environmental issues that are of priority/importance to the mining host communities in a developing country, this study used Ghana as a test case and conducted 18 in-depth, semi-structured interviews with respondents drawn from the mining host communities of Prestea and Bogosu. The findings show that members of the host communities–the group deemed to be the most powerful and legitimacy-conferring stakeholder placed pressure (i.e., expectations and/or concerns) on the mining firms that operate in the host communities in terms of their social and environmental performance. Five themes, i.e., general categories, emerged from the data of this study in terms of the social and environmental issues that are of priority/importance to the host communities: a prioritisation of community development projects, environmental/sustainability-related issues, employment of indigenes/local enterprise development, communication of social responsibility information and preservation of local culture and tradition. This study is an exploratory study based on only 18 in-depth, semi-structured interviews, i.e., using purposive sampling. The implication of this study is that because developing countries have similar socioeconomic, cultural, and geopolitical features, the finding of this study may be relevant to researchers and policymakers in developing countries where multinational mining companies (MMCs) operate. Although mining communities’ awareness regarding corporate social responsibility has increased in recent decades, to date, we know little about the social and environmental issues that are of priority/importance to the host communities of mining firms in developing countries.

STRATEGIES AND OUTCOMES OF CORPORATE SOCIAL INVESTMENT IN THE OIL & GAS INDUSTRY: A REVIEW

Corporate Social Investment (CSI) in the oil and gas industry has become increasingly important for companies seeking to demonstrate their commitment to social responsibility and sustainability. This review provides an overview of the strategies and outcomes associated with CSI in the oil and gas sector, highlighting key findings from a comprehensive review of existing literature. The review explores various strategies employed by oil and gas companies to engage in CSI initiatives, including community development projects, environmental conservation efforts, and partnerships with local stakeholders. It also examines the outcomes of these initiatives, focusing on their impact on communities, the environment, and the companies themselves. Key findings indicate that effective CSI strategies in the oil and gas industry involve a combination of financial investment, stakeholder engagement, and sustainable development practices. Companies that prioritize long-term partnerships with local communities and actively involve them in decision-making processes tend to achieve better outcomes in terms of social and environmental impact. Furthermore, the review highlights the importance of measuring and reporting on the outcomes of CSI initiatives to demonstrate accountability and transparency. Companies that are able to effectively communicate the social and environmental benefits of their CSI efforts are more likely to enhance their reputation and build trust with stakeholders. Overall, the review suggests that CSI can play a crucial role in enhancing the social license to operate for oil and gas companies, contributing to sustainable development and positive outcomes for communities and the environment.
 Keywords:  Strategies, Outcomes, Corporate Social Investment, Oil and Gas, Industry.

Gender and Power Relations in a Malagasy Congregational Asset-Based Community Development Project

Abstract Managing power relations is a development concern, and this study adds to research addressing questions of power and gender balance in local community development projects. It analyses power relations and gender roles within a Malagasy congregational asset-based community development project called “Use Your Talents”. In local communities as well as in larger society, power relations and gender injustice are interlinked. This paper is part of a qualitative study with data collected in 2018 at four Lutheran congregations in Madagascar with forty-one female and male informants. In analysing the interview, the following themes emerged: “power over” in favour of adult men, ‘power to’ that differentiates between women’s and men’s possibilities and limitations, ‘power with’ as collaboration between women, men and young people and activities based on gender and age, and “power within” from God and from skills based on gender. The study revealed that Use Your Talents mostly emphasises the ‘power within/with’, and where power is exercised ‘to and over’, it is mainly adult men exercising power. The study also found that women contributed significantly to congregational community development projects. The study concludes that the church provides both women and men opportunities for development through the Use Your Talents approach, but they exercise different aspects of power. This is reinforced by Use Your Talents and affected their roles, relations and activities in congregational community development. The difference in power favours adult men, while limiting economic and social possibilities for women.

Motives and Barriers to Citizen’s Participation in Corporate Community Development Projects (CCDPS): Examining the Regional Experience in Russia

Motives and Barriers to Citizen’s Participation in Corporate Community Development Projects (CCDPS): Examining the Regional Experience in Russia

Dedication Beyond Years: An Investigation of Aging Military Reservist Volunteers in Training

This study explores the impact of aging on the physical and cognitive capabilities, as well as the motivational factors, of military reservist volunteers in Agusan del Norte, Philippines. The objective is to assess how these factors affect the performance and motivation of aging reservists. Employing a descriptive correlational research design, the study examines the relationships among variables influencing reservists' effectiveness. The findings indicate a moderate decline in aging reservists' physical attributes, including strength, agility, and flexibility, and a similar trend in cognitive functions like memory and decision-making. However, these reservists effectively adapt their practices to mitigate aging impacts. Motivation is influenced significantly by both intrinsic factors, such as career advancement, and extrinsic factors, like the sense of comradeship, with the latter exerting a slightly greater influence. The study recommends that the Department of National Defense and the Armed Forces of the Philippines adopt adaptive training programs and cognitive enhancement workshops for aging reservists. Additionally, the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority and other educational bodies should develop veteran-focused programs and educational incentives to support career advancement and lifelong learning. The Department of Social Welfare and Development can further support aging reservists through community development projects, leveraging their experience and fostering a sense of purpose and community engagement.

KFC Foundation grant supports nonprofit ‘wish list’ projects

The KFC Foundation has awarded $1 million in grants to 100 community‐based nonprofit organizations as part of its Kentucky Fried Wishes program, which funds community development projects on the “wish lists” of nonprofits.

Analysis of the Role of Communities in Social Community Development in Kefamenanu City, Timor Tengah Utara District

This research aims to explain the role of the community in social community development in Kefamenanu City, North Central Timor District. The method in the research uses descriptive qualitative to explain the phenomena that occur. Data collection techniques through primary data in-depth interviews and secondary data by referring to journals, books, and online media. Data analysis techniques used in the research through data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion. This finding shows that Karang Taruna is a youth organization that plays a role in various social activities and development programs in Indonesia. Karang Taruna is involved in several community development projects based on invitations from local governments at both the sub-district and village levels, such as tourism development, social activities during the past COVID-19 pandemic, and social conflict resolution. Nevertheless, the role of Youth Organizations in Kefamenanu City still needs more resources as initiators or initiators of the movement, so the role of Karang Taruna has yet to be seen as the spearhead of superior generational change.

New Media, Women Empowerment, and Community Development Projects in Africa: Insights from Nigeria

New Media, Women Empowerment, and Community Development Projects in Africa: Insights from Nigeria

Chronicling Lecturers' and Stakeholders' Experiences of the Role of a Rural University's Sustainable Community Development Project

Chronicling Lecturers' and Stakeholders' Experiences of the Role of a Rural University's Sustainable Community Development Project

Development as Structural Violence in Ethiopia

Abstract Development should not be done in a way that endangers the environment, human life, or non-human life that depends on it. However, in Ethiopia, economic development was carried out with little or no concern for the environment or indigenous and minority groups whose livelihoods directly depended on natural resources. Based on an examination of primary and secondary sources through the lens of structural violence theory, this article argues that Ethiopia’s economic growth was not equitable and happened at the expense of the country’s natural resources. Using the Negede Woyto of Lake Tana as a case study, this paper investigated how economic development projects in Ethiopia impacted minority communities. The conclusion reached was that the eprdf-led government actively worked to inflict structural violence on minority groups in the Lake Tana region, using sustainable economic development as a justification.

‘Neighborhood residents cannot afford homeownership’: the limitations of community development on Latino enclaves

Abstract The challenges of low-income neighborhoods and the different approaches to community economic development continue to dominate urban revitalization and poverty discussions. The ongoing, contested debate remains whether the nature of top-down business-oriented community economic development models serve the broader interests of the community residents or the narrow interests of its proponents and benefactors. This case study analyzes the impact of urban revitalization projects in Frog Hollow, an impoverished, but vibrant Latino enclave in Hartford, CT, and examines the limitations of top-down community economic revitalization and development strategies. The study also contributes to the community development literature by focusing on the Latino communities in the United States. This neighborhood underwent a highly publicized series of revitalization projects during the decade of the 2000s, which included business owners, community organizations, and local government in its development and implementation phases. This study focuses on three areas: identifying the history, goals, strategies, and tactics behind the community economic development model used in this urban revitalization project; examining the impact of the revitalization project on the socioeconomic conditions of the neighborhood and its residents; and determining how being an impoverished Puerto Rican/Latino enclave impacted the design, process, and implementation of the community development project.

Social protection, community participation and state‐citizen relations: Evidence from a cash transfer program in south‐central Somalia

AbstractWe investigate whether social protection programs can increase participation in community‐driven development programs and examine how this affects state‐citizen relations. Using a randomized controlled trial in south‐central Somalia, we study the impacts of one‐time unconditional cash transfers to vulnerable households that were specifically designed to encourage participation in community development. While the cash transfer is relatively small as a share of annual household expenditure, it is more than sufficient to cover households' anticipated community development contributions. The transfers were funded by an NGO but delivered through state institutions. We collect survey data before and after the intervention with almost 600 individuals eligible to receive cash transfers. We find no substantial differences in participation in community development projects for cash transfer recipient households relative to non‐recipient households. However, we do find positive impacts of the cash transfers on citizen perceptions of clan elders and the local government. Our findings suggest that relatively small social protection interventions may face challenges in increasing vulnerable households' participation in community development and decision‐making, while also highlighting potential positive spillover effects for state‐citizen relations and beliefs about the capacity of local institutions where states institutions are involved in program delivery, even if they do not finance the program.

Youths’ Participation in Community Development Project in Ibadan Oyo State

The lack of attention given to youth participation in community development projects has hindered the progress of development in many communities. Despite their valuable contributions, which include physical strength, mental capabilities, and exposure, the efforts of young people are often disregarded, and their voices go unheard. The objective of this research was to evaluate the level of participation of youths in community development projects in Ibadan, Oyo State research study employed a descriptive survey research design to gather information on the participation of youth organizations in community development projects/programmes in Ibadan, Oyo State. The population of this study comprised all the estimated sample for this study is 320. A multi-stage sampling procedure was utilized to determine the sample size. In the first stage, two local governments, namely Ibadan North and Akinyele, were purposively selected within the Ibadan metropolis. In the second stage, four communities were randomly chosen from each of the selected local government areas: Agbowo, Bodija, Yematu, and Mokola from Ibadan North, and Moniya, Ojoo, Orogun, and Idi-Ose from Akinyele and 40 respondents were selected from each of the selected communities on whom were administered a self-structured questionnaire, the data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. The findings indicated a moderately high level of participation of youths in community development projects in Ibadan. Based on these findings, it is recommended that community leaders recognize and strengthen the involvement of youths. This would encourage greater sense of belonginess in and sustainability of community development projects and overall community progress.

A Case Study of Community Development Projects in Tigray, Ethiopia

Purpose: This research aims to suggest a checklist for successful implementation of future community development projects by analyzing three community development projects implemented in the Tigray region of Ethiopia applying Sustainable Livelihood Framework (SLF).
 Originality: While there exist various studies dealing with community development programs, there is only few studies that attempt to empirically analyze the positive effects and negative effects of community development programs. Thus, this research intended to empirically examine differences between development theories and practices using three projects that have been implemented in Tigray region.
 Methodology: Case study was conducted through qualitative research methods such as Key Informant Interview, Focus Group Discussion in analyzing three community development projects implemented in Tigray region of Ethiopia. The elements of each project were analyzed based on 5 assets, strategies, and outcomes of the Sustainable Livelihood Framework(SLF) to evaluate the sustainability of the project.
 Result: In the Koraro project, community participation in every stage was absent, which weakened the sustainability of the positive outcomes. Second, AbrehaAtsbeha project was community-based, participatory, and integrated, which led to agile implementation. Lastly, in Maymekden and Addis Alem project, meaningful community participation was not made, which resulted in unsustainable outcomes.
 Based on these results, this study suggests that the success of community development projects depends on factors such as community participation and investments in livelihood assets.
 Conclusions and Implication: This result implies for the development actors that the community development project outcomes should be sustained through local resources and build a sense of ownership in the community

Oil Compensation and Intra-Communal Conflict in the Niger Delta

Conflict is a recurrent phenomenon in the Niger Delta area. Many of the conflicts are due to poverty, unemployment, chieftaincy tussle and mistrust of the traditional institution. The aftermath of many of these conflicts are always immeasurable in financial terms, but usually include loss of lives and properties. The current crisis in Ogoni particularly in Kpor and Bomu communities of Gokana is one of such conflicts, arising from dispute over sharing of oil compensation money. This study, however, was conducted in Kpor community relied on key informant interview of community leaders and focus group discussion, and found that the crisis in Kpor was as a result of distrust of community leaders, especially the chiefs over oil compensation money supposedly paid through the chiefs. We, therefore, recommended the provision of employment for youths and channeling of oil compensation money towards community development projects rather than sharing among community members.

EFFECTS OF THE PRODUCTS AND SERVICES OF MICROFINANCE INSTITUTIONS ON THE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OF THEIR MEMBERS IN VINTAR, ILOCOS NORTE, PHILIPPINES

This study determined the effects of the products and services of Microfinance Institutions on the economic development of their members in Vintar, Ilocos Norte, Philippines.           The descriptive correlational research design was adopted using a survey questionnaire to gather data. A total of 603 respondents were involved. They were taken from the members of two Microfinance Institutions (CARD Bank Inc. and ASA Philippines Foundation Inc.,) in Vintar, Ilocos Norte, Philippines who have been a member for at least two years. The study was delimited into the top three barangays with the most members which are composed of Barangays Parut, Alejo Malasig, and Pedro F. Alviar. Frequency, percentage, weighted mean, Chi-square test, and Pearson r of correlation were used to analyze and interpret the data gathered.           The following were the highlights of the findings of the study. The MFIs are giving their members quality products offered on loan applications and loan features as manifested by a very satisfied and satisfied rating of their members, respectively, as it is significantly and positively related to their economic development. The MFI members’ economic development in terms of financial, personal, and business status are significantly and highly related to their level of satisfaction with the customer services offered by the MFIs. The MFI’s services offered have met the satisfaction level of their members as expressed by a rating of very satisfied and satisfied on customer service and non-financial services, respectively. It was recommended that: On the part of Microfinance Institutions, they should consider the financial status of their members in terms of the reasonable service fee, and allow repayment and reasonable penalties for nonpayment/default to lessen their burden on their expenses, microfinance institutions should also conduct community development projects in different municipalities to increase their members' economic development, and microfinance institutions should provide business training to improve or expand their members’ business strategies.  On the part of the members, they should pay their payments on time and actively participate in the activities of the MFIs. On the part of future researchers, they may also conduct studies in other places that offer products and services of Microfinance Institutions, they may also consider other variables, such as their incentives and benefits.

Exploring Community Participation Towards Sustainable Livelihoods

South Africa still struggles with poverty, inequality and unemployment after two decades of democracy. By historical and international standards, poverty levels continue to be relatively high despite some recent progress in reducing the scourge. This study explores community participation to mobilise the strengths and assets of community members towards sustainable livelihoods in Tshwane, Gauteng Province, South Africa. The qualitative study was undertaken with 21 participants from four community development projects. The participants were purposefully selected, and individual semi-structured and focus group interviews were utilised to elicit data following ethical research principles. The findings of the study demonstrate that the community development projects managed by the development centres struggle to uphold accountability in poverty alleviation because they lack community participation, skills and the capacity to mobilise assets. The implications of the study are that development centres need to ensure the participation and mobilisation of strengths and assets of community members to empower them towards self-reliant, sustainable livelihoods.

A Critical Examination of the Roles of Traditional Authorities in Community Development Projects: Mbunza and Ukwangali Communities ‘Stances

A Critical Examination of the Roles of Traditional Authorities in Community Development Projects: Mbunza and Ukwangali Communities ‘Stances

Environmental factor as predictors of citizens’ participation in development activities in Ogbomoso town, Oyo state, Nigeria

The involvement of citizens in developmental endeavors is crucial to achieving rapid and enduring progress. However, the social context often displays varying attitudes that impact community participation. Despite numerous studies on citizen engagement, there is a shortage of research on how different environmental factors influence involvement in community development. This study, investigated the environmental factors that could predict citizens’ participation in developmental activities in Ogbomoso, Oyo State. The descriptive survey research design was adopted. The simple random sampling was used to select 100 respondents from the community of Ogbomoso North Local Government. The data was analysed using the descriptive statistics of percentage, frequency count and inferential statistics of multiple regression. Environmental factors (leadership impact and involvement in community groups) jointly influenced citizens’ participation in development activities (R = 0.46, p<0.05). These factors accounted for 0.20% of the total variance in citizens’ participation in development activities. The relative contribution of the variables is as follows; Leadership impact (β= 0.36; t = 3.59; p < 0.05) and Involvement in community groups ((β= 0.17; t = -1.68; p >0.05). The result showed that citizens participate in development activities irrespective of their involvement in community groups and leadership greatly influences citizens’ participation in developmental activities. Since leadership determines peoples’ participation in community development projects, it is recommended that community leaders should be exemplary in discharging their duties and also visualise projects that are need-based.