Role of non Governmental organization in improving the livelihood of rural community: the case of world vision Ethiopia

The study was undertaken with the prime objective of evaluating the role of World Vision in improving the livelihood of the rural community in Soddo Area District, Wolayta Zone. Descriptive survey design was used. Household survey was conducted among 175 households who were randomly selected from five kebeles (villages) on proportionate to their population size. Structured questionnaire was prepared, pretested and distributed among the sample respondents for collection of primary data. Furthermore, face to face interview was also conducted among 15 members who were purposively selected from local government officials and World Vision staff. Focus group discussion and critical observations of various variables were also conducted. The collected data have been analyzed by using the integration of qualitative and quantitative methods. Descriptive statistics were widely used to analyze quantitative data. Sustainable Livelihood Model has been used as a conceptual framework whereby the major livelihood components such as food security and agriculture, health, education, potable water supply and credit and saving schemes are discussed. The findings of the study revealed that the role of World Vision in the major livelihood components was found to be highly significant in the study area. Its attempt to provide potable water, however, has been hampered by the quality of the constructed water points. Community participation and government cooperation were found to be the best opportunities whereas, recurrent draught, low level of the community’s education and land size have been found to be the major challenges of livelihood improvement of the community. The communities in the study area believed that the World Vision contribute a lot for their livelihood improvement. It was recommended that the World Vision need to take appropriate actions to improve the quality of their water points through constructing deeper wells and raising awareness of the community. Introducing an integrated irrigation program has been advised as the major cause for this is related to rain fall irregularity. It is recommended that the World Vision work in collaboration with the community itself and with government on the possibilities of introducing adolescent education to the community. Alternative agricultural technologies relevant to small land size have been recommended.