The feasibility and community perceptions of the Caprivi Development Project
Date
2009-03
Authors
Biewenga, Carla
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Stellenbosch : University of Stellenbosch
Abstract
There is a great need for development, especially in impoverished rural areas. One such
area is the Caprivi in Namibia. This study analyses the viability of the Caprivi
Development Project and how it is perceived by the communities in terms of improving
their livelihoods. The first part of this study sets out the theoretical framework on rural
development over the past half century. Theories such as the modernist, small-farm
orthodoxy, neo-liberalist, integrated rural development, participation models and the
sustainable livelihood framework are reviewed. The usefulness of participation and the
sustainable livelihood framework for the purpose of this study is emphasised. Thereafter
the lessons learned from mechanised dry-land crop farming initiatives are explored. The
extent to which the natural environment such as rainfall and soil fertility and
organizational structures which include the project design, technology and infrastructure,
the formation of cooperatives and finance, government policies, training and
development and the project objectives that affect the permanence of agriculture are
assessed. The importance of community commitment to a project for its sustainability is
emphasised. Hereafter, the case of the unique Caprivi and the need for development in
this impoverished and isolated region is presented. The history, environment and politics
are discussed. The economic activities in the region, the people and their lifestyles along
with the livelihood strategies they pursue are outlined. Against this background, the aims
of the Caprivi Development Project, the project design, its structure, the stakeholders and
the challenges faced in making this project a success are presented. The study then
reports on how this project is perceived by the farmers involved in this rural development
project, with special reference to its perceived benefits this project holds in terms of
improving their livelihoods, and what could contribute to its possible failure. In the final
chapter, theory, lessons learned and research findings are brought together, before
reaching some final conclusions relating to the two research questions posed, namely
whether this project has the elements of a successful development project and whether
the community supports and see this project as an opportunity to relieve poverty and
improve their livelihoods.
Description
Thesis (MPhil (Sociology and Social Anthropology))--University of Stellenbosch, 2009.
Keywords
Dissertations -- Sociology, Theses -- Sociology, Dissertations -- Community and development, Theses -- Community and development, Caprivi Development Project, Rural development -- Namibia -- Caprivi, Rural development -- Namibia -- Caprivi -- Public opinion