Factors affecting sustainability of community development projects in Morogoro district, Tanzania

Communities of various sizes in Tanzania are implementing sustainable projects. Despite its increasing popularity, the sustainable community “movement” consists of a diverse set of activities in an early stage of development with no overall national strategy, framework or common measures of success. Thus, this study was conducted to assess factors affecting sustainability of community development projects in Morogoro district of the Morogoro region, Tanzania. Specific objectives were to: (i) identify factors affecting sustainability of community development projects; (ii) assess the extent of stakeholders participation in different stages of selected community development projects; and (iii) determine factors related to sustainability of community development projects. Data were collected from 104 respondents including 80 household heads and four extension agents from four villages in Morogoro district and 20 key informants using questionnaires, researcher’s diary and checklist. Quantitative data were analysed using Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) computer software and “content analysis technique” was used to analyse qualitative data. The study identified different factors affecting sustainability of community development projects initiative process in the study area; the extent of stakeholders participation in different stages of selected community development projects; and factors related to sustainability of community development projects. It was concluded that the primary goal of local community projects in the study area was to meet their basic resources needed in ways that it could be continued in future; the question of stakeholder participation from sustainability perspective is where control should reside, that is, whether mobilisation, community development, organising or empowerment strategies are employed. It was therefore recommended that characterising and harnessing the power of local leadership and community investment by building on existing assets is essential component of any plan to enhance prosperity and build a sustainable social, economic and environmental future. Areas for further research are also suggested.

Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture Food Security and Cooperatives