Assessing the effectiveness of resource mobilization strategies employed by non-governmental organizations: A case of selected NGOs in Kajiado east constituency-Kenya

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the resource mobilization strategies employed by three selected NGOs in Kajiado East Constituency. Its objectives were to identify the different strategies used by local NGOs in resource mobilization, to explore the effectiveness of the strategies employed in resource mobilization by the local NGOs, to establish the challenges the local NGOs faced in resource mobilization and to make recommendations on the best resource mobilization strategies from the findings. The study used descriptive research design and targeted all employees in three resource mobilization organizations, namely Kajiado Integrated Rural Association for Development (KIRAD), Maasai Girls Education Foundation and MAA Aids Awareness Program. Data was collected using questionnaires and key informant interviews. Data was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS), version 21. The results revealed that there were resource diversification indication that the organizations had measures in place to curb volatility and financial risks by not relying on a single stream of income. Findings also revealed that the strategies employed for resource mobilization by the organizations were effective as they ensured a clear sense and commitment to the vision and mission of the organization. The study concluded that the NGOs had adopted methods, mechanisms and initiatives aimed at investing their efforts to marshal resources by either generating funds on their own or by seeking funds from other organizations. The study recommended that the NGOs should first lay a foundation to have a compelling reason for resource owners to donate and that the organizations should tailor resource mobilization strategies to the strategic plans that guide the organization to know what the objectives are and enable the organization identify the resources needed.