PERCEPTIONS ABOUT THE IMPACT OF NGO FUNDED PROGRAMMES ON THE SOCIO ECONOMIC WELL BEING OF THE PEOPLE OF SAVELUGU – NANTON DISTRICT: A CASE STUDY OF WORLD VISION GHANA

Abstract

There have been several projects funded byWorld Vision Ghana (WVG) in the Savelugu-Nanton District to help alleviate poverty in the town. Most of these projects have been designed for various communities living in the district. This study examined the perception of the community on some World Vision projects, their effects on the people and how these projects have contributed to the socioeconomic well-being of the people. A sample of 400 was chosen using the Slovin’s method of sample size determination. Using stratified sampling technique, communities were stratified into three statas and 5 communities were picked from the three strata. The sample was then allocated to the communities proportionally and questionnaires were administered in the chosen communities. Predictive Analytics Software was used to analyse the data collected from the questionnaires. The study revealed that 60% of the respondents affirmed that WVG has impacted both individuals and the communities at large through educational support projects, health funded projects and community development and sensitization projects. The study highlights some challenges that inhibited WVG from supporting the rural poor which included limited resources to cater for the numerous demands of the communities and poor participation of some community members in WVG Programs. It was recommended that the Assembly should develop its own realistic and sound strategies that are not dependent on donor funds but those that explore local financing opportunities. WVG and the Assembly should adopt strategies for community sensitization to change the mind set of the community members for self-initiatives, self-reliance and community contribution for self-development