An assessment of the effect of participation on sustainable development in a rural electrification project : a case study of the Ipari-Efugo project

[摘要] ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Due to inadequate financial resources and lack of managerial skills, in this case studythe local level of governance does not have appropriate mechanisms to manage theirresources adequately. It is observed that the Nigerian government cannot provide allbasic amenities for the people at the grass-root level of development. Following theabove scenario, rural communities do not have access to basic amenities such aselectricity and pipe borne water. In Nigeria, little research has been done with regard tosustainable development in rural electrification.This study is based on the impact of community and individual participation in a ruralelectrification project, and shows how sustainable development plays a leading role.The study is based on a rural electrification project initiated and facilitated in 1996, andwas completed in 2000 by the Ipari-Efugo Otukpa community members in Benue Statein the North Central part of Nigeria.In spite of prevailing poverty in rural areas, Ipari-Efugo community members were ableto be responsible for their own development without government intervention. Theresearch includes literature studies of rural electrification projects and demonstrateshow participation and sustainable development can lead to a successful communityproject.Irrespective of obstacles such as poverty and lack of economic empowerment, Ipari-Efugo community members are resilient and were able to provide electricity. Access toelectricity can serve as a prerequisite for economic development and growth. Thebenefits accruable from the use of electricity outweigh the costs of providing theamenity to the community. Participation through sustainable development remains thecore instrument responsible for the completion of the electricity project in Ipari-Efugo.This study encourages rural communities to take responsibility for their owndevelopment.

[发布机构] Stellenbosch University