Abstract:
There is a growing recognition that community participation is a very important
element in achieving the goals of the poverty reduction programmes. But is it
only in theory or also in practice? This study assessed community participation
in the Rural Enterprise Programme (REP) to enhance participation and poverty
reduction. A total of 72 respondents consisting of programme beneficiaries,
staff of REP and opinion leaders constituted the sample for the study. Data were
collected using in-depth interview, key informant and focus group discussion
was qualitatively analysed using narrations and documents. The study shows
that beneficiaries participated in only implementation and monitoring and
evaluation stages and their level of participation was low. Beneficiaries were
not empowered to take initiative themselves resulting in a minimal effect of
REP on poverty reduction. The sustainability strategies of REP are not effective
because beneficiaries were not involved. The study recommends that REP
should involve beneficiaries more in their programme. Start up kits should be
given to new trainees to enable them put the skills they have acquired into use.
Beneficiaries should be involved in the sustainability strategies to make it more
effective.
