Discussion Paper No. 318 of 2023 on Assessing the Contributions of NGOs in Promoting Development in Arid and Semi-Arid Lands in Kenya: Case of Garissa County

Abstract

Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) are non-profit entities that are not affiliated with any government or political party and therefore, distinct from both the state and private enterprises. The NGO sector in Kenya plays a key role in implementing development programs, sometimes partnering with the government and other times acting independently. The study analysed the contributions of NGOs in promoting development in Garissa County. Challenges NGOs face in implementing development programs in Arid and Semi-Arid regions include limited and unsustainable financing, operational challenges associated with working in conflict-prone areas, poor infrastructure, low human resource capacity and limited community engagement. Limited access to education and healthcare means that the local population may lack the necessary skills and knowledge to actively participate in and benefit from these programs. Retrogressive cultural norms, limited social cohesion, and low levels of community organization make it difficult for NGOs to involve the local population in programme implementation effectively. Furthermore, the study found that the weak of coordination among NGOs, county government, and national government leads to limited project ownership and overlapping of projects, causing delays and inefficient utilization of resources. The study also reveals that global political economy issues such as conflicts and pandemics can have a significant impact on NGOs' operations and funding. Addressing these challenges will require a multi-faceted approach that includes sustainable financing through diversifying funding sources, deepening resource mobilization, coordination and ensuring sustainable planning; strengthening coordination of NGO activities through promoting joint working plans, monitoring and reporting; ensuring effective community participation and investments in human capital; and addressing political economy factors in project implementation including through effective risk management and strengthening NGOs governance structures. Only by addressing these challenges can NGOs effectively implement development programs that lead to sustainable economic development in areas of operation.