Role of Community-Based Organizations in Enhancing Sustainable Livelihoods in Mathare Sub-County, Nairobi County, Kenya

Abstract

Mathare Sub-County primarily consists of informal settlements, where most residents struggle with poverty, economic disparities, and limited access to essential services, including water, housing, education, and healthcare. The roles of CBOs are intended to transform the lives of people by injecting resources through programs that will, in the long run, change the entire community. Unfortunately, this does not effectively reflect sustainable livelihoods for the people. The purpose of the study was to assess the role of Community-Based Organizations in enhancing sustainable livelihoods in Mathare Sub-County, Nairobi County, Kenya. The specific objectives of the study included examining the roles undertaken by CBOs in enhancing sustainable livelihoods in Mathare Sub-County, Nairobi County, Kenya; to explore the challenges affecting the effectiveness of CBO-led livelihood initiatives for households in Mathare Sub-County, Kenya; and to evaluate strategies for improving CBO-led initiatives in promoting sustainable livelihoods for households in Mathare Sub-County, Kenya. The study was guided by two theories, namely, empowerment theory and stakeholder theory. The study adopted a descriptive research design. Purposive sampling was used to come up with a representative sample size of 109 respondents, which was achieved through the use of Yamane’s formula, from a target population of 150 respondents. The study incorporated primary data that was collected using questionnaires and in-depth interviews to collect data. The researcher used the Statistical Package of Social Science (SPSS) to analyze the gathered data. The researcher upheld research ethics by ensuring voluntary participation, avoiding plagiarism and ensuring confidentiality of data gathered from the respondents. The study projected to generate insights that will inform policymakers, support the capacity of community-based organizations, and contribute to more effective livelihood interventions in Mathare Sub-County.