Agricultural and Food Security NGO’S: Are They Making a Difference in Zimbabwe?
Open Access
- Author:
- Skacel, Jordyn Lindsey
- Area of Honors:
- Community, Environment, and Development
- Degree:
- Bachelor of Science
- Document Type:
- Thesis
- Thesis Supervisors:
- Leland Luther Glenna, Thesis Supervisor
Theodore Roberts Alter, Thesis Honors Advisor - Keywords:
- Zimbabwe
Non-governmental organizations
food security
agriculture - Abstract:
- Zimbabwe, a country in Sub-Saharan Africa, is struggling with food insecurity, partially stemming from agricultural problems and governmental failings, such as land redistribution and restrictions placed on non-governmental organizations (NGOs). In comparison to neighboring countries, it is worse off in many categories and is second in the world in the percentage of the population living under the poverty line (Central Intelligence Agency, 2016). Non-governmental organizations are typically called on to assist when countries, such as Zimbabwe, face life-threatening food shortages. However, they often face challenges, including governmental resistance, limited funding, and poorly trained staff members who lack commitment. Internal difficulties cause them to be limited in their scope and the work that they are able to do. The demand by donors for quick solutions and easy success stories leaves little room for trial and error, causing a shortage of funds when projects need long-term support. Because of these challenges, many NGOs are not able to transition from immediate needs to more sustainable development solutions. Many development theories, both conventional and nonconventional, are often too abstract of offer much guidance. Ultimately, stories of localized successes do exist, but the reach of NGOs is very minimal. Better cooperation from governments and NGO improvements such as long-term funding, training, and better communication are needed if NGOs are going to reach all of those who need them in the world. It is also possible that NGOs themselves are simply unable to replace governmental policy and assistance. This thesis will explore whether NGOs are actually improving food security and agriculture in Zimbabwe. The methods I use are surveying NGOs, examining maize yields over time, and comparing Zimbabwe to other countries in the same geographical area.