An evaluation of the social and economic impact of Non-Governmental 0rganisations in Namibia: A case study of Katutura youth enterprise centre and women’s action for development
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Date
2024
Authors
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Journal ISSN
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Publisher
University of Namibia
Abstract
Since gaining her independence, Namibia has witnessed steady growth in economic
performance, expansion of industries and impressive expansion of social services.
However, there remain wide disparities between income and wealth leading to
extensive hunger and poverty. There has been an explosion of NGO activities aimed
at alleviating poverty and reducing the gap between the poor and the rich, more
importantly, shifting from welfare to sustainable skills development-oriented
programmes directed at marginalised communities. Despite these developments, very
little is known about the overall impact of NGO activities and very few details of
specific project interventions are accessible in the public domain. This study is a meta critical evaluation of the socio-economic impact of the Katutura Youth Enterprise
Centre (KAYEC) and Women Action for Development (WAD) training programmes
on targeted youth in Namibia.
This research unfolded within the context of the realisation that NGOs play a
significant role in enhancing development among the youth in Namibia. A mixed
methodological approach consisting of questionnaires, interviews and document
analysis was employed to determine the effects of KAYEC and WAD training
programmes on beneficiaries’ socio-economic development. The intellectual premise
of this research was buttressed by viewpoints solicited from a sample of 100 students,
comprising 25 participants from each of the four regions selected for this study.
Structured questionnaires were administered with the selected participants, based on
course, gender and age. Interviews were used to understand the impact of the training
programmes as well as the challenges faced by beneficiaries of the KAYEC and WAD
training programmes. The research employed descriptive and regression analysis to
analyse the data.
The results of the study established that KAYEC and WAD vocational and skills
training programmes in bricklaying and plastering, ICT, office administration,
needlework and tailoring contributed significantly to the socio-economic development
of the beneficiaries. Moreover, the study reveals there is a significant improvement in
financial status and improved access to social amenities (public buildings and other
ii
infrastructural facilities which are shared and become convergence spots for the local
communities) as a result of the beneficiaries’ gainful employment after completing the
training programmes. However, the results show a moderate impact on mechanic and
horticultural skills
Description
A Dissertation submitted in fulfillment of the requirements for the Degree of Doctor of philosophy in political and Administrative studies
Keywords
NGO, Socio-Economic impact, Beneficiaries improved Economic, Social status, University of Namibia, Namibia