Influence Of Funding On The Sustainability Of Local Non-governmental Organizations’ Programs In Baringo County, Kenya

Abstract

Local Non-governmental Organisations (NGOs) play a vital role in the socio-economic development of Kenya. They complement government‟s efforts in providing sustainable development especially in the socio-economic sector. Despite this important role local NGOs play in the development process they are faced with a number of challenges which raises concern about their sustainability. This study sought to analyse the influence of funding on the sustainability of local non-governmental organizations in Baringo County in Kenya. The objectives of the study were to establish the sources of funding and its influence on sustainability of local NGOs in Baringo County, to find out reasons limiting local NGOs access to funding, examine the influence of availability of funding on retention of qualified employee and volunteers by local NGOs and finally analyse the influence of governance of local NGOs on their potential to access funding opportunities. The study targeted local NGOs that are actively engaged in development projects in Baringo County, NGO managers and volunteers being the main respondents. Purposive sampling technique was used to identify local non-governmental organizations to participate in the study. A sample size of 130 respondents was selected using sample size formula. Descriptive survey design was used as the research methodology for this study. A valid and reliable structured questionnaire was used as the principal research instrument. The data was analysed using descriptive statistics; frequencies, percentages, means and standard deviations. The results of the analysis were presented using tables, pie charts and bar graphs. The study sought to analyse sources of funding and their influence on sustainability of local NGOs. Findings of the study showed that majority organizations in the area of study receive funding in form of grants and donations from external donors making up most of the funding for local NGOs. These poses threat to their flexibility and independence in terms of programming. Study results also attest to the fact that many local NGOs grapple with governance challenges that not only limit their chances of accessing multiple sources of funding but also weakens sustainability of their development interventions.