Local NGOs Research Articles

Enhancing quantitative capacity for the health sector in post-Ebola Liberia, a tracer study of a locally developed and owned coding and biostatistics program

Background Despite the demonstrated value of quantitative research in understanding and responding to public health events, analytics capability is not always prioritized or available in settings that would greatly benefit from it. In Liberia, there are no university degree-granting programs in biostatistics or mathematical modeling, promoting dependence on external technical assistance. To address the gap, a local NGO, Quantitative-Data for Decision-Making (Q4D), was founded to enhance capacity and opportunities for analyzing quantitative data among Liberians. Methods To understand the relevance, utility, and impact of the skills being taught at Q4D, a tracer study was undertaken with current and former students. Participants completed an online survey that evaluated how often and in what ways they are applying course skills, as well as any personal or professional advancement they have attributed to their learning of coding and/or biostatistics through the program. Results Among 43 participants, 81% reported a high level of confidence in independently applying skills learned through Q4D classes in their jobs and/or academic programs. Most participants (81%) responded that they were actively demonstrating the skills they acquired; 74% were teaching the skills to others. Among the 83% of employed participants who reported using the skills currently in their jobs, 56% rated the skills they learned as very or extremely useful in their current positions. Several students attributed salary increments, consultancy opportunities, and scholarships to the skills gained through the program. Conclusions Program skills are being applied by students employed in health-related sectors, suggesting that the training content is relevant and useful for addressing some of the workforce’s analysis needs. Moreover, skills built through the program have positively impacted students by preparing them with the skills required for additional employment and training opportunities to advance in-country health research capacity and reduce inequities.

INTERNATIONAL AGENCY INVOLVEMENT WITHIN HANDLING ROHINGYA REFUGEES IN ACEH: FOR THE FUTURE SOLUTIONS

This study explores the management of Rohingya refugees in Aceh, focusing on the roles and responsibilities of key stakeholders such as UNHCR and IOM. Utilizing qualitative methods, including interviews and field observations, the research identifies challenges and potential solutions related to refugee management. Findings reveal that UNHCR is pivotal in providing protection and essential aid to Rohingya refugees, including registration, documentation, and necessities. Meanwhile, IOM plays a crucial role in facilitating orderly migration and human rights advocacy. The study also highlights a shift in local attitudes towards refugees, influenced by media misinformation and political motivations. Both organizations collaborate with the Indonesian government and local NGOs to address these issues, but there is a pressing need for more comprehensive and long-term strategies. Recommendations include improving communication strategies, enhancing integration programs, and addressing the root causes of displacement. The study underscores the necessity for a coordinated approach to support and protect Rohingya refugees and suggests avenues for future research to refine these strategies and improve outcomes for displaced populations.

Determinants Of Adoption Of Soil Conservation Technologies Among Smallholder Farmers In Izzi Local Government Area Of Ebonyi State, Nigeria

The study examined the determinants of adoption of soil conservation technologies among smallholder farmers in Izzi Local Government Area, Ebonyi State, Nigeria. Multistage sampling technique was used to select 160 respondents for the study. Data collected with the aid of structured questionnaire were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results showed that farmers in the area had average age of 47 years and operated on 1.5 hectares of land with an average farm income of ₦152,125. Further analysis revealed that the smallholder farmers had an adoption index of 2.21 which implied that they used at least two (2) soil conservation technologies with an average source of information of 2.72 showing that they got information on soil conservation technologies from at least three different sources. Furthermore, results revealed erosion, deforestation, reduced soil fertility and indiscriminate bush burning as the forms of soil degradation existing in the area while adopted coping strategies were crop rotation, use of organic manure, intercropping practices, appropriate use of fertilizer, use of mixed cropping system and planting of trees. The results of OLS multiple regression analysis showed that the coefficient of multiple determination (R2 ) of the regression model was 0.760. This implies that seventy-six percent (76%) of the variations in level of soil conservation technology adoption were accounted for by the independent variables socio-economic characteristics of the smallholder farmers included in the model. The result of factor analysis identified social, institutional and economic factors as constraints militating against adoption of soil conservation technologies among the smallholder farmers in the study area. The rejected hypothesis concluded that there is a significant relationship between the socioeconomic characteristics of smallholder farmers and their adoption of soil conservation technologies in the area. Based on the findings, the study recommends; that local government authorities and NGOs working in areas that are prone to soil fertility losses should introduce programmes that will train and promote soil conservation technologies to be adopted by farmers to improve productivity; provision of Infrastructural facilities such as good road network to ensure easy movement of agricultural inputs to the farmers field; and Agricultural extension services which are saddled with the responsibility of disseminating timely, complete actionable information should be re-positioned and strengthened to ensure smallholder farmers access to information, through appropriate channels.

Environmental Governance of Forests Over Limestone in Guiuan Marine Reserve Protected Landscape and Seascape (GMRPLS), Guiuan, Eastern Samar, Philippines: A Gendered-Age Perspective

Environmental governance of the Forests Over Limestone (FOL) ecosystem is critical, considering its unique and fragile characteristics. However, there is a limited study on the role of gender and age in the perception of stakeholders' participation in forest governance. A survey was conducted in the Forests Over Limestone of Guiuan Marine Reserve Protected Landscape and Seascape (GMRPLS), Guiuan, Eastern Samar, Philippines, to determine the perception of the residents in GMRPLS as to the responsible sectors and groups in the conservation and protection of FOL. The study results showed that men and women of various age groups identified the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Local Government Units (LGUs), people organizations, non-government organizations, education, businesses and industries, and the community comprising of men and women of various age groups, e.g., children, teenagers, adults, senior citizens, as stakeholders of the FOL in GMRPLS. The study also tried to determine the relationship between age and the respondents' perception of FOL stakeholders. However, no relationship was found between age and their perception of the various groups responsible for FOL governance. Moreover, a very weak (0.096) relationship between age and their perception that adults are responsible for FOL governance was found at a 0.05 significance level. The results indicate that older people are expected to participate in the environmental governance of the FOL ecosystem. A very weak relationship between age and their perception that men (0.123) and women (0.089) are responsible for FOL governance was also found at a 0.01 and 0.05 significance level, respectively. The results suggest a need to develop and implement policies and programs that will empower women to participate in FOL governance while ensuring equal representation of men and women from various age groups in the management of FOL. The study recommends organizing developmental activities for young men and women from different age groups to promote and instill environmental values so that they continue to support the conservation and protection of FOL as they age.

Beneficiary appointment and delivery planning in a conflict setting

AbstractIn this study, we explore the challenges faced by humanitarian organizations engaged in relief efforts for internally displaced individuals during armed conflicts. Based on our semistructured interviews with three local nongovernmental organizations (LNGOs) in Syria, we introduce a new appointment scheduling problem to improve decision‐making for aid delivery planning in conflict settings. Operating in a highly resource‐constrained environment, these LNGOs face complexities that necessitate effective decision support tools to streamline supply delivery at relief facilities, where a large number of registered beneficiaries are served. Our proposed appointment scheduling problem aims to optimize the allocation of delivery times for various supplies, taking into account the urgency of needs and operational limitations. We present a heuristic that addresses the complexities of the proposed scheduling problem in a flexible way. The heuristic can accommodate simple rules derived from LNGOs' operational policies on the ground, such as imposing a single visit per beneficiary, delivering a single supply type per day, and preallocating time slots to conflict groups. We present a case study based on the Latakia district of Syria to assess the performance of our heuristic and the effectiveness of simplified delivery strategies. Our results not only showcase the efficiency of the heuristic, but also provide valuable managerial insights. We find that cross‐training of staff is more beneficial when supplies are relatively abundant. Furthermore, the simplified delivery policies are effective in certain conditions contingent upon various factors, including supply scarcity, difficulty of travel, and the level of conflict in the population.

Plastic Waste Management: Opportunities and Challenges in Implementing Circular Economy in Gorontalo

Indonesia is known as the world's second-largest producer of plastic waste, and plastic pollution in the country is expected to continue increasing. The beverage industry in Indonesia is one of the fastest-growing sectors, contributing significantly to the rising volume of plastic waste, which has reached 490 thousand tons per year. Therefore, a comprehensive solution is needed to address this plastic waste crisis. One approach that can be taken by the Government and Local Governments throughout Indonesia is to promote a circular economy practice consisting of 5Rs: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Refurbish, and Renew. In a qualitative study conducted by the Population Research Center of BRIN and BPS in 2022, the issues of plastic waste in the Gorontalo Province and the policies undertaken by the government, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), businesses, and the community have been documented. This article will descriptively present the practices of plastic waste management in the Gorontalo Province, along with various obstacles and challenges. The research results indicate that a specific pattern of cooperation and collaboration between the Local Government, NGOs, and local businesses with extensive networks is necessary to drive a plastic waste-based circular economy in Gorontalo. Transforming the plastic waste disaster into an economically prosperous opportunity is not impossible with sufficient green literacy, political will, and genuine commitment from all parties involved.

Comparative analysis of water quality index and river classification in Kereh River, Penang, Malaysia: Impact of untreated swine wastewater from Kampung Selamat pig farms.

The Kereh River in Penang, Malaysia, has faced severe pollution for over 40 years due to untreated wastewater from swine farms in Kampung Selamat, discharged via stormwater drains. Despite official claims that all 77 swine farms treat their wastewater to meet regulatory standards, local non-governmental organizations and villagers have challenged this, though their concerns lack scientific backing. This study evaluates the river's water quality by analyzing samples from upstream (US), midstream (MS), and downstream (DS), and from Parit Cina-Parit Besar, a conduit for untreated swine wastewater. Fourteen parameters were measured against Malaysia's National Water Quality Standards (NWQS). Significant differences were found in six parameters: ammonium nitrogen (AN), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), chemical oxygen demand (COD), dissolved oxygen (DO), total suspended solids (TSS), and oil and grease (OG). While Dunn's post hoc pairwise comparison showed no significant differences among river segments, mean values indicated increased pollution downstream, particularly after the convergence with untreated swine wastewater. River classification worsened, with water quality index dropping from 69.88 ± 11.37 score (Class III) US to 38.49 ± 12.74 and 50.44 ± 3.14 scores (Class IV) MS and downstream, respectively. A significant positive correlation between E. coli and AN (r = 0.71, p < 0.01) suggests a common point source pollutant, particularly the untreated swine wastewater. The river exhibits low oxygen levels and high organic matter and nutrient concentrations, especially MS and downstream, highlighting substantial ecological and public health risks. Effective enforcement of waste treatment regulations and enhanced monitoring are crucial for mitigating pollution and restoring the river's ecosystem. Collaboration between authorities and pig farmers is essential to improve water quality and maintain the river's ecological balance. PRACTITIONER POINTS: Severe Kereh River pollution: Untreated swine wastewater from Kampung Selamat pig farms, primarily via Parit Cina-Parit Besar, has degraded the river for over 40 years. Regulatory non-compliance: Despite official claims, untreated swine wastewater continues to pollute the river, challenging regulatory standards. Significant pollution indicators: Elevated levels of AN, BOD, COD, DO, TSS, OG, and E. coli signal severe pollution midstream and downstream. Water quality index drop: WQI scores classify midstream and downstream sections as polluted, indicating worsening conditions downstream. Urgent need for action: Enforcing regulations, improving wastewater treatment, and relocating pig farms are crucial for restoring the Kereh River.

Lesson Learned from Post-Disaster Psychosocial Support for Children in Palu, Central Sulawesi—Indonesia

In the aftermath of the devastating Palu disaster in September 2018, communities, especially children, suffered deep psychological trauma. At the request of faith leaders, local NGO Wahana Visi Indonesia (WVI), in partnership with Krida Wacana Christian University (UKRIDA), conducted a psychosocial support training program for volunteers, including Qur’an recitation teachers and Sunday school teachers in Palu. These trained volunteers then initiated a psychosocial support initiative for children in the area. Years later, WVI and UKRIDA conducted a reflective study of the program, collecting data from 40 volunteers through focus group discussions and surveys. The study identified key themes, including the effectiveness of the training, reflections on program implementation, lessons learned, and recommendations for future programs. The study underscores the importance of multi-stakeholder involvement, particularly that of faith-based organizations, in providing psychosocial support in disaster-affected areas. Given the recurring threat of disasters in the region, the study advocates for transparent collaboration among various social stakeholders. To build community resilience, disaster management strategies need to be widely disseminated, and the need for continuous training to strengthen community preparedness is emphasized. In addition, the development of culturally sensitive training modules tailored to the community’s language, age, and religious background is essential. Such a comprehensive commitment will ensure the community’s ability to deal effectively with future disasters. Detailed findings are discussed further in this paper.

Conducting Community Led Research on Women Facing Violence as One Herself: An Interview with Suyheang Kry of Women Peace Makers

This interview is a reflexive exchange with Suyheang Kry, Executive Director of Women Peace Makers, a local non-governmental organization in Cambodia working at the intersection of gender equality and peacebuilding. A leader and experienced practitioner of feminist and conflict transformation programming, she has pioneered various novel efforts, including interventional community research, in responding to social justice and conflict issues in Cambodia and throughout the region. Having worked with the interviewer (Hyma) for a decade, the two co-developed a community engaged research approach known as Facilitative Listening Design to engage communities in inquiry as leaders and to ultimately contribute toward paradigmatically shifting who is consequently considered the researcher in more participatory research.

Evidence of Factors Hindering Establishment of Viable Rural Development Action in Eastern Cape Municipalities

Efforts aimed at assuaging rural areas in South Africa date back to the post-transition-to-democracy era in 1994. During this era, reforms and policy interventions aimed to enhance rural development, with a focus on economic growth within rural landscapes. The main argument in this article is that implementing viable rural development action requires a collaborative effort to address complex aspects of societal and economic transformation. The article draws from a study that examined factors hindering the successful establishment of viable rural development actions in the O.R. Tambo and Amahlathi District municipalities. Qualitative data were collected through in-depth interviews with 19 participants, including local economic development officers, entrepreneurs, NGOs, and councillors. The data were analysed using Atlas ti 9 software. The findings highlight several limitations in addressing local development actions, including malfunctioning leadership, climate change, criminal activity, limited access to reliable markets, and funding and skills deficits. To drive change, collaborative action platforms should be established to facilitate the sharing of traditional and innovative knowledge among rural communities and other non-state agents. Leveraging this knowledge and skills can lead to the adoption of best practices and new technologies. The article contributes to a body of knowledge that informs rural development policies and explores alternative ways of achieving development goals such as the infusion of best practices from exclusive top-down approaches to bottom-up approaches. Keywords: Viable rural development action, Economic growth, Bottom-up approach

Attribute Agenda Building in An Environmental Crisis: News Coverage of MV X-Press Pearl Ship Incident in Sri Lanka

This study investigated the building of the attribute agenda of an environmental crisis, taking the MV X-Press Pearl shipwreck incident as a case study. English weekend newspapers for a year since the incident were used for a content analysis to identify the information subsidies and their respective attribute agendas. An analysis framework was developed based on information subsidies and their respective attribute agendas. Results indicated that the governmental bodies unrelated to the environment were the most frequently cited sources, followed by experts and local non-governmental organizations/ industries. Conversely, the public was the least cited information source. Environmental damage was the most frequently emphasized attribute, followed by law and agreements and prevention. However, policy was the least reported attribute. Considering the correlation between information sources and attributes, the Marine Environmental Protection Authority highlighted the mitigation agenda, while non environmental related governmental bodies emphasized prevention agenda. Policymakers focused on getting compensation, while governmental bodies emphasized law and agreements and Experts prioritized on environmental damage. The evidence for attribute agenda building was found further strengthening the agenda building hypothesis and information subsidies had their own attributes highlighted in media reports. The study delves into the practical implications of agenda building, which can influence media outlets. It suggests strategic communication planning, aligning coverage with objectives, and collaborating with environmental advocacy groups. This understanding informs decision-making, promotes balanced coverage, and enhances public engagement. It is important to additionally take into account the process used to establish the agenda in future research.

Healthcare Resilience in Trinidad and Tobago: A short report on the Healthy Hospital Initiative at the Sangre Grande Hospital

Objective: To describe the establishment of the Healthy Hospital Initiative (HHI), its activities and accomplishments, challenges and future steps. Methods: The initiative was implemented at the Sangre Grande Hospital in the Eastern Regional Health Authority (ERHA), one of five Regional Health Authorities in Trinidad and Tobago. A review of personal records maintained by members of the Healthy Hospital Initiative was undertaken. These records included descriptions of the activities, accomplishments and obstacles that the team experienced. Results: The Healthy Hospital Initiative was launched in November 2019 with the aim of creating an environmentally sustainable health system and improving the physical and mental health of staff and patients. A senior doctor led the initiative and team members included a range of staff, including both clinical and non-clinical professionals who were all volunteers. This allowed for a multi-directional, inclusive approach and created a sense of ownership amongst the staff. In 2022, several activities were implemented: green spaces, recycling bins, a kitchen garden and staff exercise sessions. In addition, team members participated in training on Pan-American Health Organization (PAHO) Smart hospitals and collaborated with a local non-governmental organisation as well as the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine campus engineering department to develop further projects. Conclusion: Next steps include promoting similar projects in community health facilities, developing a hydroponics system and, assessing the disaster resilience and carbon footprint of the hospital.

Local environmental organizations and long-term investor value appropriation

This study uses datasets representing local non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to examine how local environmental organizations enhance long-term investor value appropriation (LIVA). We explore how external and internal firm factors influence the impact of local activism. Our results indicate a positive effect of local activism on LIVA, particularly in contexts where local communities and firm governance structures prioritize long-term value. Furthermore, in examining the mechanisms through which local environmental organizations affect LIVA, we find that firms tend to increase their environmental disclosures in response to local activism. These findings support the social movement theory that social activities inspire firms' social and environmental activities and reporting practices, subsequently affecting LIVA.

Contribution of Local Non-governmental Organizations to Improving the Living Conditions of the Poor People in Burundi: The Case of ODEDIM-CARITAS in Muyinga Commune

Contribution of Local Non-governmental Organizations to Improving the Living Conditions of the Poor People in Burundi: The Case of ODEDIM-CARITAS in Muyinga Commune

Role of multi-level institutions in facilitating innovation and adaptation technologies for reducing climate risk and impact: Evidence from coastal communities of Bangladesh

While the role of innovation and adaptation technology in reducing climatic risks is widely recognized, few studies have investigated the role of formal, quasi-formal, and informal institutions in facilitating the adoption of such technology at the local level. The novel contribution of this study is in offering explanations of how local institutions facilitate or create barriers against innovation and implementation of climate adaptation technologies. In this study, we employ a mixed-methods research technique to empirically examine the roles of local institutions in two coastal communities in Bangladesh in facilitating reduction of the impacts of climate hazards. Primary data were collected via interviewing 300 household heads, 26 key informant interviews, and 2 Focus Group Discussion sessions. The findings reveal that local institutions (i.e., formal, quasi-formal, and informal) are actively involved in various partnership-building processes and actions to promote innovation and adaptation technologies at the community level. For example, in the study area of Satkhira District, in collaboration with local non-governmental organizations (NGOs) as well as national level government organizations, such as Bangladesh Meteorological Department, Union Parishad Disaster Management Committees are deeply engaged in mobilizing local volunteers to effectively disseminate cyclone-related early warnings. However, significant institutional fragmentation in the country remains a major barrier to the sustainable implementation of various programs related to climatic hazards. For institutions to play their roles sustainably, it is recommended that national policies place greater emphasis on nurturing partnerships among regional stakeholders, as well as facilitating collective action for climate-induced disaster risk reduction and participatory community development.

Regeneration of ecotourism in Cameroon: geopolitical conflict, crisis, and conservation

ABSTRACT This paper examines the effects of crises of climate change and geopolitical civil conflict in Cameroon, on the development of the ecotourism sector. Additionally, the hurdles to the regeneration of the sector post- the COVID-19 pandemic are considered. A qualitative research design was used. In-depth interviews were conducted with key informants involved in the ecotourism sector, including government officials, local community representatives, conservationists, non-governmental organizations and management of national parks. The data collected were thematically analysed, with key themes pointing towards the dire impacts of COVID-19, geopolitical and climate crises on the sector, with one of the primary consequences being inhibited movement of people, extreme weather events and changes to flora and fauna, ultimately leading to shrinkage of the sector. The central nature of conservation, linked to ecotourism, was also highlighted. The importance of collaborative management, development of dedicated policy and strategic plans for the successful regeneration of ecotourism also emerged. The paper provides contemporary insights and recommendations into the sustainable regeneration of ecotourism in the face of extreme geopolitical and socio-economic crises.

Relationship between Climate Change and Business Risk: Strategies for Adaptation and Mitigation: Evidence from a Mediterranean Country

Global corporate operations are facing significant challenges as a result of climate change. Businesses are exposed to a variety of dangers because of their effects, which might include anything from changing regulations to excessive weather. The objective of this research is to examine the connection between business risk and climate change, with a particular emphasis on the success of different adaptation and mitigation tactics used by Greek companies. A cross-sectional study was carried out among 345 enterprises in Greece using a quantitative research methodology. To investigate the relationship involving company risk management, adaptation, and mitigation plans with climate change risks, descriptive, correlational, and regression analyses are employed. Businesses are most distressed about the financial risks associated with climate change, followed by supply chain disruptions and physical hazards. Moreover, developing climate-resilient infrastructure and enhancing catastrophe preparedness have evolved into vital adaptation tactics. Also, converting to renewable energy sources is the most preferred approach to mitigation initiatives. Furthermore, the study demonstrated a significant positive correlation between climate change mitigation strategies and effective business risk management. Nevertheless, as perceived climate change risks increased, business risk management effectiveness decreased. The study suggests that Greek businesses are actively engaging in climate change risk management strategies that embrace both adaptation and mitigation strategies. Yet, the study recommends a continued focus on developing resilient infrastructure and collaborative efforts with local communities, governments, and NGOs. Businesses should also prioritize the shift to renewable energy sources to better mitigate their carbon emissions. This research contributes significantly to understanding how companies can strategically address the challenges of climate change. Furthermore, the study provides valuable insights into the dynamics of climate change adaptation and mitigation in a specific geographical area, thereby enhancing the global dialogue on climate resilience and sustainable business practices.

Just Around the Corner: How Cross-ethnic Solidarity Is Established Between Locals and the Asylum-Seekers and Refugees in a Local NGO

AbstractThe paper examines how an NGO, established by a group of Hong Kong students, an academic (myself) and a group of asylum-seekers and refugees from South Asia, Southeast Asia and Africa, have worked through different barriers to create a network which builds on diversity to achieve cross-ethnic solidarity within the local community. It seeks to understand what makes a cross-ethnic solidarity network work in a local community. Using the concept of solidarity, the study looks into how the local NGO builds on a mix of diversity of race and gender and (non-)citizenship status to establish solidarity through community activities, advocacy and friendship. Based on ongoing ethnography between 2014 and 2020 and continuous activism work through 2014 until current, and interviews with 50 members of a local NGO, I argue that empowerment through solidarity needs to adopt a ‘neighbourhood’ approach based on mutual support, respect for diversity and empathy when building a solidarity network. An organization which takes on a ‘community’ and ‘neighbourhood’ approach by establishing friendship, focusing on relational aspect amongst local people and the asylum-seekers, is very effective in creating a lasting solidarity with trust. The study shows how solidarity built on differences could work effectively when migrants are in the host countries. More importantly, the results suggest that local population will need to take a more proactive approach to connect to the migrant community so as to build solidarity and achieve recognition and support from a wider community.

Malaria infection and associated household level risks in an urban and rural areas of West Bengal, India.

Malaria is one of the critical public health problems globally as well as in India. Recent times have seen an increase in the importance of the possible effects of environmental and demographic factors on the local transmission of malaria. We conducted a community-level study between urban and rural areas to find out the factors associated with malaria infection. A community-based observational cross-sectional study was conducted between October 2020 and September 2022 among 330 households from urban areas of Chetla, Kolkata and rural areas of Singur district of West Bengal state of India. Households were selected by two stage random sampling method. Study was done by face-to-face interview, review of medical records and observation of the households. SPSS software was used for data analysis. Multivariable logistic regression (hierarchical model) was done and p-value equal to or less than 0.05 was taken as significant. The prevalence of malaria infection among participants and household level risks of malaria infection were found to be 6.1%, 1.8% and 18.8%, 6.7%, respectively in the urban and rural areas. Significant predictors of malaria infection were households with ≥5 family members [AOR=2.91{CI (1.19-7.15)}], households not using any mosquito protective measures [AOR=3.71{CI (1.04-13.13)}], presence of mosquito breeding places [AOR=4.93{CI (1.53-15.93)}], absence of effective window screen [AOR=3.19{CI (1.16-8.71)}], absence of separate kitchen [AOR=2.38{CI (1.06-5.34)}], and inadequate lighting condition in the house [AOR=4.35{CI (1.78-10.64)}]. This study provides important insights into the epidemiology of malaria in a high and low-transmission setting in West Bengal, India. Intensified efforts strengthening community mobilization for preventing breeding places for mosquito. Policy should strengthen investment in housing programs that may complement reduction of malaria transmission. Disease reduction effects of Government and local non-governmental organizations should be directed towards those areas in order to decrease disease load.

Governance characteristics and feelings of safety are associated with attitudinal success in community‐based natural resource management &amp; conservation organizations in northern Kenya

Abstract For Community‐based Conservation (CBC) projects to be effective in the long‐term, they need to receive the support of the communities involved. Assessing whether CBC governance systems are working effectively is challenging, and it is important to evaluate both the characteristics of these governance systems, and the perceptions of community members. It is also important to understand how factors other than the governance features of individual CBC organizations may affect feelings of satisfaction. Using existing data collected by a local NGO in northern Kenya from 2014 to 2017, we investigated whether characteristics indicative of good governance have increased over time in 28 community‐owned natural resource management &amp; conservation organizations (“conservancies”). We also assessed whether the presence of good governance characteristics, and other factors (whether community members feel safe, conservancy population size, and age of conservancy) predict the degree to which community members reported feeling satisfied with their conservancy. We adapted an existing monitoring dataset that captured governance, management, and administration practices. We created a modified index that focussed on concepts that have been identified in wider literature as being important aspects of the governance of socio‐ecological systems. Our analyses produced the following main findings: Characteristics of good governance significantly increased in conservancies over the study period. Self‐reported satisfaction with a conservancy was most strongly predicted by self‐reported feelings of safety and our measure of good governance. Livestock raiding and land/boundary conflicts appears to be the security issues most closely associated with community members reporting that they feel unsafe. Our adapted measure of governance and analyses provide a more robust assessment of the idea that governance characteristics of conservancies improved in meaningful ways during the study period. However, these analyses also point to the ways in which the monitoring of governance of CBC projects could be improved by incorporating or strengthening assessments of concepts that are known to be of importance in governing the use of natural resources. Our analyses of community members' satisfaction with their conservancies point to the need for CBC projects to consider interactions with other groups in the wider landscape, and to engage with issues of governance at different levels of organization. Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.