Determinants of the sustainability of community based child centres a case of compassion international-assisted child development centres, Kilome Sub-County, Makueni County, kenya

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the determinants of the sustainability of community-based child centres, focusing on Compassion International-supported child development centres (CDCs) in Kilome Sub-County, Makueni County, Kenya. The sustainability of community-based initiatives is a major concern. Research shows that 40% of these programmes end within the first few years if the initial financing is stopped. The study was guided by these specific objectives: to examine the influence of funding models on the sustainability of the CDCs; to investigate the impact of community participation; to interrogate the influence of programme leadership on sustainability, and to examine the role of stakeholder support of CDCs. The research was based on Resource Mobilization Theory, Stakeholder Theory and Sustainability Theory, and it applied a descriptive research approach. The target population was 108, drawn from the accountability structure managers and the project staff in the two CDCs. The target population was Ngaamba and Kima CDCs. The sample size was 85 respondents, computed with the aid of Yamane (1967) formula. Simple random and purposive sampling were adopted, with the primary data collected through questionnaires and key informant interviews, and secondary data from literature sources. The instruments of data collection were the questionnaire and an interview guide; descriptive statistical analysis was used for analysis. Quantitative data was analyzed descriptively using the mean, standard deviation and percentages, while qualitative data was analyzed through content analysis, with the final presentation made in tables, bar charts and pie charts. To evaluate the reliability of the research design and data collection instruments before data collection, a pilot study was conducted. This study reveals that funding models, community participation and programme leadership influenced the sustainability of the CDCs. The study recommends that the leadership of the CDCs should look for additional sources of funds and that the top leadership should involve community members as key stakeholders. The outcome of this research may be used by policymakers involved in children's welfare to make improvements in resource mobilization and enhance the sustainability of community-based projects.