ASSESSMENT OF CONSTRAINTS AFFECTING CBOs IN ACHIEVING THEIR OBJECTIVES: CASE OF EMBU AND BUNGOMA COUNTIES, KENYA

Abstract

The objective of this study was to assess the constraints of CBOs in achieving their objectives. The research was based on case study research design. The target population was the project officers of the pilot projects, key informants from the CBOs and farmers in Embu and Bungoma counties. The study employed purposive sampling in selecting the CBOs and farmers who were the members of the organizations. Data collection was done through data triangulation whereby data was gathered through methods like, document analysis, key informant interviews and focus group discussions to ensure the validity of the information. Qualitative data was obtained from the notes recorded from the field. The field notes were was recorded in verbatim. The analysis was done inform of frequencies, percentages which presented in terms of graphs, pie charts and tables. The study concluded that, the challenges the CBOs face range from the membership of the organization, leadership, capacity building, project monitoring and evaluation, networking, marketing of products and networking of the groups. The study recommended that, finances should be provided so that members can acquire the office space and equipment they might require for the day to day operations of the group activities.