Factors contributing to the failure of community income generating projects in the Mankweng Cluster of Polokwane Municipality, Limpopo Province

Abstract

The prevalence of poverty, unemployment and low economic growth are some of the reasons programmes for poverty alleviation have been introduced. The study sought to examine the factors that contribute to the failure of community income generating projects in the Mankweng area of Polokwane Municipality in Limpopo Province of South Africa. The main objectives for the study were to examine the nature and operations of the community projects, to determine the factors which have contributed to the failure of the projects and to find out what participants propose as solutions. The research questions which were answered addressed the nature and operations of the community projects, factors which have contributed to the failure of the projects as well as the solutions for sustainability of community projects. The methodological approach was a mixed method research approach where both qualitative and quantitative methods were utilized. The cumulative number of participants in these projects is 290. The study employed both probability and non-probability sampling to select participants since it was mixed methods research. Data in the qualitative component was collected through interview guides whereas on the quantitative part, questionnaires were utilized. Data was analysed using Descriptive statistics for the quantitative phase whilst manual coding was utilized for the qualitative data. Key findings revealed that different projects are implemented in the study area and categorized as farming, material and poverty alleviation projects. There are also challenges which affect the income generation projects such as electricity, politics, interference, financial constraints and monitoring and evaluation. The study concluded that community income generation projects have a positive impact on the livelihoods of people in rural areas. Recommendations for further research include financial management in the implementation of income generation projects in rural communities.