NGOs and poverty reduction in Zimbabwe: challenges and the way forward

Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) play a critical role in ending extreme poverty in Zimbabwe and elsewhere in developing countries. It is not surprising that they have been branded as the third sector in development. The literature concurs on the role of NGOs in increasing income, improving health and educational outcomes, reducing food insecurity, and sustaining livelihoods. Despite these contributions, NGOs in Zimbabwe face challenges that are militating their efforts towards eradication of poverty. These challenges have not been studied holistically thus this article captures the realities of NGOs in fighting poverty and suggest the way forward. The major findings of the study are that the micro economic inflationary environment in Zimbabwe negatively impacts on NGOs. Due to the economic challenges NGOs are affected directly, as they contend with shortages of enablers like cash, fuel, and many others. Moreover, the strides made by NGOs at the household level are reversed by broader economic challenges. Another challenge affecting NGOs is political interference by ruling party cadres creating a difficulty environment for NGOs. Considering these limiting challenges, the paper suggests a way forward for NGOs such as NGOs taking up increasingly advocacy roles. The methods for data collection used are in depth interviews and Focus Group Discussions (FGDs). The collected data were analyzed thematically.