CONTRIBUTION OF NON GOVERMENTAL RGANIZATIONS (NGOS) POVERTY

REDUCTION IN

AFAR REGION CASE STUDY DUBTI

WOREDA

SENIOR ESSAY SUBMITTED TO THE DEPARTMENT OF ECONOMICS IN PARTIAL FULFILLMENT

OF THE REQUIREMENT FOR THE DEGREE OF BACHELOR OF ARTS IN ECONOMICS

BY: MOHAMMED MAHIE SADIQUE

ID No: CBER/263/02.
ADVISOR: ESHETU SEID (M.Sc.)
May
Dessie

AKOWLEDGEMENT
First, I would like to praise the almighty God for whom there is nothing impossible. I take the privilege to express
my esteem and profound sense of gratitude to Ato Eshatu S. MSc) for his learned council, sagacious guidance, kind
encouragement and constructive criticism all along the investigation and organizing of this study. And I extend my

thanks to Ato Tiyfoh who translated the manuscript in to computer so neatly. And I would like
to thank my family and friends who directly or indirectly shared may pain and problem while
I was studying.
Finally, I would like to thank my family for their continuous financial and moral support
throughout my stay in campus.

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Content
AKOWLEDGEMENT.

Page

TABLE OF CONTENTS
LIST OF TABLES....
ACRONYMS .
1. INTRODUCTION....
1.1Background OF STUDY.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
1.3 Objective of the study
1.4 Scope and limitation of the study
1.5 Significance of the study
1.6 The organization of the paper
2 LITERARTURE REVIEW
2.1. Theoretical Review
2.1.1. Basic Concepts: poverty, growth, and development
2.1.2 Non Government Organizations (NGOs): An overview.
2.2. Empirical review..
2.2.1. Non -government Organizations (NGOs) in Ethiopia.
2.2.2. The Role of Education and Health on Poverty
Reduction and Economic Growth
2.2.2.1 Human Development
2.2.2.2. Education and Poverty Reduction
2.2.2.3 Health service provision and poverty reduction
3. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
3.1. Description of study area..
3.1.1 Administrative, Socio-Economic and Demographic
Background.
3.1.2 Location
3.1.3 Demographics
3.1.4 Agriculture.
3.2 Method of data collection
3.2.1 Type and Method of Data analysis

3.2.2 Method of data analysis.

4 DATA ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION
4.1 The distribution and rationale for the existence
of NGOs in Dubti woreda
4.1.1 Investment
4.1.2 Ongoing relief operation.
4.1.2.1 Food aid
4.2 The contribution of NGOs development of education and
health sector in the Dubti woreda.
4.2.1 Health sector contribution of NGOs
4.2.1.1 Human health contribution of NGOs.
4.2.1.2 Private Veterinary Drug supplies..
4.2.2 Education sector contribution of NGOs.
4.3 NGOs and employment creation..
5 CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATION
5.1. Conclusion...
5.2 Recommendation..
5.3Bibliography

LIST OF TABLES
Table

Page

1. Regional distribution of NGOs by sector ..

2. NGOs projects by sector ..
3. Level of food poverty in woreda.

4. Measures of absolute poverty

5. Comparative health service coverage
.6. Distribution of primary schools by providers and regions
7. Number of students enrolled in general education .
8. NGO staff distribution by profession and location

ACRONYMS

ANRSOHB. Afar National Regional State Of Health Bureau

ANRSOEB.

Afar National Regional State Of Educational Bureau

APDA.

Afar Pastoralist Development Association

CSA.
CRDA.

Central Statistics Agency

Christian Relief Development Agency

DPPC.

Disaster Prevention And Preparedness Commission

DWEOF.

Dubti Woreda Educational Office

ERP.

Economic Reform Program

EPRDF.
IMF.

Ethiopian Peoples Revolution Democratic Front

International Monetary Fund

LRD.

That Linking Relief With Development

NPDPM.

National Policy On Disaster Prevention And Manage

NGOs.

Non- Governmental Organizations

TGE.

Transitional Government Of Ethiopia

WFP.

World Food Program

1. INTRODUCTION
1.1Background of the Study
Ethiopia is one of the few African countries endowed with tremendous economic potential.
The country, with an area about 1.1 millions square kilometers, and population about
82,825,000 approximately, is the ninth largest and third most populous country in the
continent. It has diverse physical features with a variety of agro-ecological zones that are
favorable for agricultural production. More over Ethiopia has about 124 million hectares of

land of which 60% is arable, but only 15% of the largest livestock population in Africa and
ranks tenth in the world. It has a number of rivers crossing its landscape (about 40) that can be
taped for irrigation hydro electric power and domestic use, but the agricultural sector has
remained largely rain fed with only 3% of land being under irrigation. However, the bleak
performance of the economy has made the country far from tapping its potential, and has left
it one of the poorest in the world, with a very low GDP per capita of just under $324. Given
such a huge economic potential, one sadly wonders about the worry some issue of the
disappointing performance of the economy (IMF.2010.)
Like chronic drought and famine, low level of saving and Investment, backward technology,
political instability, deteriorating terms of trade, oil price shocks and socio-cultural factors
forced the country to move along the immeasurable path of poverty for too long period
(Abrar.2000).
Like many other African economies, the Ethiopian economy during the 90s was in the abyss
of structural constraints, commodity price shocks, and drought. Two basic tasks had to be
simultaneously accomplished by the EPRDF government: the first was to restore peace and
stability to aware-torn and grossly distorted economy. The second, and more difficult, was to
lay the foundations for sustained economic growth. Therefore, the TGE adopted an economic
policy comprising two components, namely a stabilization program and an economic reform
program (ERP), in the latter of which structural adjustment was subsumed (Abrar, 2000).
The overall policy framework of the TGE and the specific measures taken afterwards largely
aim to give the private sector its proper role in economic activities, to compress the role of the
state to strategic activities, and to create an enabling and conducive environment for the
private sector (Ibid).
Moreover, the TGE, as part of its effort to address the root causes of the prevailing
vulnerabilities to drought and famine in the country, has issued a policy on disaster prevention
and management. The policy reflects a major departure from past relief activities. In the past,
relief was an end by itself and was, confined to distribution of food and related items; whereas
in the new policy, it is envisaged as a means for enhancing development programs that help

reduce vulnerabilities. A national policy on disaster prevention and management (NPDPM)

and directives to implement the policy were developed and were endorsed by the government
in December 1993. Subsequent years saw the development of guidelines and building of
systems to operationalize the national policy (CRDA, 2000).
A major attitudinal shift has occurred since the endorsement of the NPDPM in December
1993. There is now growing recognition and belief that linking relief with development
(LRD) is the most appropriate mechanism of ensuring that relief is provided in a manner that
contributes to development and thereby also assists in reducing vulnerabilities to disaster
(CRDA, February 2001). The NPDPM provides the frame work in which NGOs operate in
Ethiopia. In June 1993,
The disaster prevention and preparedness commission (DPPC) introduced a general policy
guideline on NGO operations. The guideline, among other things, has laid down the guiding
principles on which NGOs should adhere to. These pertain to transparency in their work,
generation of resources and keeping over head cost to a minimum, addressing the most needy,
supporting and strengthening local coping mechanisms, working at grass roots levels and
involving the community in need in the identification and planning process, etc
(CRDA,.2000). Various indigenous and international non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
are currently operating in the country. New a agencies are also increasingly applying for
registration. Even though the responsibility for providing assistances to people affected by
disaster and poverty is primarily visited in the government of Ethiopia, the government
welcomes and encourages non-governmental charitable institutions to supplement the
governments effort in disaster prevention, mitigation, preparedness and poverty reduction in
Ethiopia. NGOs in relief operations have alleviated the suffering of thousands of Ethiopians
and saved the lives of millions (IBID).
Afar region is the most backward region in Ethiopia and the society are leading the pastoral
life and has large uneducated population. This is the main reason that the region is the poorest
with the education, health and infrastructure towards development. So, the government is

calling NGOs to enter the region and alleviate the problem. Some NGOs are working on
poverty reduction in the Dubti woreda like on education, health and food in security.
NGOs in Ethiopia participate in a wide areas of activities: in economic and social
infrastructure development such as education, health, agriculture, food security, small scale
irrigation, micro-finance (small credit), water development and so on so far the government
and a substantial amounts of donors funds influence in to the country through NGOs toward
poverty redaction and development in Ethiopia have taken a wide ranging practical policy
measures. However, it seems that there is a wide gap between the actual performances and
expected results from the activities of the government and the NGOs in the country.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
Poor people live without fundamental freedoms of action and choice that the better-offs take
for granted. They often lack adequate food and shelter, education and health, deprivations that
keep them from leading the kind of life that every one values. They also face extreme
vulnerability to ill health, economic dislocation, and natural disasters. And they are often
exposed to ill treatment by institutions of the state and society and are powerless to influence
key decisions affecting their lives. These are all the dimensions of poverty in our society. The
experience of multi deprivations is intense and pain full (world development report
2000/2001).
Government alone cannot solve the deep-rooted poverty in this country; Calling for an
increasing demand for NGOs involvement in the fight against poverty. There was no research
which has been done on the topic of contribution of NGOs to poverty reduction in the case of
dubti woreda. So, that is why chose this topic. This paper aims to look in to contribution of
NGOs (grass-root organization) to ward poverty reduction goals of the country. This paper
aims to assess the contribution of NGOs in this endeavor by trying to answer such basic
question as: Why NGOs existed in Dubti woreda?
In which area NGOs intervene their hand?
What are the contributions of NGOs on poverty reduction in Dubti woreda?

1.3 Objective of the Study

The general objective of this paper is to assess the contribution of NGOs in poverty reduction
in Dubti woreda and to assess the way of creating employment through expanding basic
infrastructure like education and health sector.
Specific objectives
o To assess the rationale for the existence of NGOs in Dubti woreda
o -To assess the contribution of NGOs development of education and health sector in the
dubti woreda.
o To assess the contribution of NGOs on employment creation for citizens in terms of
poverty reduction in woreda.
1.4 Scope and Limitation of the Study
Any organization that is not part of government qualifies as an NGO, but the term typically
denotes organizations that are both nongovernmental and non profit. This broad definition
covers a wide range of organization. The primary concern of the study was assessment of
NGOs contribution on poverty reduction through improving the provision of education, health
and living standard via creating job opportunity (employment).
1.5 Significance of the Study
The NGOs sector has to organize itself in one way or another and produce indicator that serve
to assess its performances, both in quantitative and qualitative terms, in fighting poverty and
all forms of vulnerability. Documenting the comprehensive quantitative performance is also
believe to serve as a means establishing legitimacy in the face of other actors, while the
qualitative information is used as NGOs input to the development strategies aimed at reducing
poverty. In this regard, the contribution of this paper is making a quantitative analysis of
NGOs contributions to the development and documenting what has been made so far.
1.6 The Organization of the Paper
This paper would contain five chapter that first chapter is introduction which included that
background, statement of the Problem, o objective of the study, scope and limitation of the
study, Significance of the study & Description of study area and the second chapter dealt with

review of literature and the third chapter focused on methodology & the fourth chaptar
focused on data analyzing and finally, the last chapter focused on result and recommendation.

2 LITERARTURE REVIEW
2.1. Theoretical Review
2.1.1. Basic concepts: poverty, growth, and development
The conventional definition of the poor refers to all those persons who subsist below a level
of income that can sustain only abare minimum standard of living, in the literature of poverty
studies it is this level that is referred to as the poverty line (MEDAC, 1999).
World development report (1990) defines poverty as the inability to attain minimal standard
of living poverty, therefore is concerned with absolute and relative standard of living.
Thus poverty can be judge from two perspectives. That is in absolute and relative terms
absolute poverty refers to the in ability of a part of the society (the poor ) to attain the

minimum basic needs for survival (consumption based ) and it is sometimes equated with
latent famine latent famine has a potential to develop in to absolute famine (Mesfin, 1984).
Relative poverty, on the other hand, is referred

to as the degree of inequality across the

whole societies, as far as relative poverty is concerned it refers to a person or household

whose provision with goods services is lower than that of other persons or households (ISC,
1994).
In general, poverty in relative term is the situation of the lowest income groups in relation to
the national income. The poor are those whose income or expenditure are low relative to the
rest of the societies in which they live (Ibid).
Poverty at national level is often the reflection of poverty at house hold level. Thus, poverty
alleviation at the house hold level leads to the economic growth and development of a nation
(Mohammed and Simon, 1995).
Economic development can be defined as a process whereby real per capital income of the
population of the country increases over a period. This is to mean that the number of people
under poverty line should not increase and the distribution of income should not become more
unequal. It is the achievement of the ideas of social modernization. These ideas are rising
productivity, social and economic equalization, modern knowledge, improved institutions and
attitudes and rationally coordinated system of policy measures that remove undesirable
conditions in the social system that perpetuate the state of under development (Todaro, 1997).
In addition, one can say that economic development is situations that requires the systematic
coordination and inter dependency of the different sectors of an economy. It requires on
sectors of the economy to function in an integrated way. A cording to several new
development studies economic development is not to be equated. Simply with
industrialization because first the concentration of a large percentage of production in the
primary sector is in itself not a cause of poverty; the cause is the low productivity in
agriculture. Second progress in industrialization is highly dependent up on agricultural
development. Third, economic development is much more than simple acquisition of
industries. These views also imply that that economic development involves some thin more
than economic growth. Hence, development is taken to mean growth plus change; there are

essential qualitative dimensions in the development process that may be absent in the growth
or expansions of an economy through a simple widening process (Meier, 1975).
In general, it is hard to think of countries where a large decrease in absolute number of people
living in poverty has not been accompanied by faster growth. In principle, a country pursuing
redistribution policies could reduce poverty even if its total income did not grow. But we
would be hard pressed to find real- world. Example, policies that increases the incomes of the
poor; such as investment in primary education, rural infrastructures, health, and nutrition tend
to enhance the productive capacity of the whole economy, boosting the incomes of all groups
(Lipton, 1998).
2.1.2 Non government organizations (NGOs): An overview
The emergency of non-governmental organization (NGOs) as a third sector in the economy
has been an important phenomenon of the 1980. NGOs have been heralded as new agents
with the capacity and commitment to make up for the short coming of the state and the market
in reducing poverty. This trend has been reinforced by cumulative evidence from the
developing world on the positive contribution of NGOs interventions and other grass roots
initiatives to poverty reduction. International donors, developing country leaders and
governments, and scholars have thus to pay greater attention to the role potential, and limits of
NGOs in the development process (Paul, 1991).
NGOs have been a subject of intellectual inquiry in many countries in recent years. The
emergence, growth, and survival of NGOs as an institutional from alongside profit-making
enterprises and the government are the phenomenon that invited this inquiry. A brief review of
the theoretical perspectives on NGOs is attempted below as a back drop to discussion of the
role and potential of NGOs in development. The literature on NGOs is multifaceted, covering
the economic, political, and managerial dimensions of the non-profit sector that consists of
theories of the NGOs and of their behavior (Hansmann, 1987 and rose-Ackerman, 1980).
The dominant approach is to explain the phenomenon of NGOs in terms of the failure of the
market and of the state. NGOs provide a vital link between civil society, the state and the
market. Such links can be crucial in making development activities accountable and effective.

One important factor creating new opportunities for NGOs involvement is the decentralization
of government programs. While NGOs are independent of the state, their presence and
survival depend on government. On the lows governing NGOs and perhaps more
importantly .On government, attitudes towards NGOs, attitudes can vary from a desire to
work in close partnership with NGOs to outright hostility. Local officials sometimes oppose
direct distribution of assistance. If government involves itself in local organization but does
not share power, it can alienate the poor people and destroy the organization. Some of the
problems experienced by NGOs are due to uncertain and short-term funding and limited
capacities. In Senegal, some NGOS involved with delivering services financed by
international organizations are criticized for dispensing financing with little local
participation (Nar yon, 2000).
The potential of NGOs to support poor people organizations function as independent
watchdogs, and keep the state accountable at the local level remains largely unfulfilled.

2.2. Empirical Review

2.2.1. Non -government organizations (NGOs) in Ethiopia
In the early 1960s the number of NGOs, in the context in which we understand them today,
was very small. Probably not more than two or three. The Red Cross and Swedish save the
children were the pioneers. NGOs presence in Ethiopia grew considerably following 1973\74
drought and the attendant famine. Drought struck again 1984|85, with more serious
consequences. This, and wide spread civil strife led to perhaps the worst famine in the history
of Ethiopia, and also to an influx of NGOs mostly international (Card may 1998).
According to the disaster prevention and preparedness commission (DPPC), around the
middle of 1997 there were 220 international and local registered NGOs operating in Ethiopia.
About 46 percent of NGOs operating in Ethiopia are local. The remaining ones are
international or northern.

Although the number of local NGOs was very small up to the beginning of the 1990s, it
increased considerably after the change government
number at 270 registered

of 1991. More cent source put the

and about so awaiting registration whatever the exact number of

NGOs operating in the country might be today, Ethiopia hosts by far less NGOs than most
African countries. In South Africa there are 54.000 NGOs, 700 in Zimbabwe, and about the
same number in Kenya. According to some observers, however, the lower capacity of the
local NGOs her were mainly due to the hostile policy environment that existed during the
previous government. These NGOs have had little exposure to capacity building resources
(Ibid).
In a survey carried out in 1994 by the public administration and human resource development
division of the government an analysis of the activities of

NGOs showed that about 72

percent focused on welfare programs defined as provision of services on subsidized basis and
independent of a long-term strategy. About 22percent were engaged in development; that is,
activities aimed at improving the quality of life and productive capacity of communities on a
self-sustaining basis the remaining 6 percent concentrated purely on relief and rehabilitation,
that is, assistance in emergency situations. Despite the dearth of data, de-segregating the
allocation of NGOs mobilized resources in to relief and development, and setting aside the
distinction between relief and welfare, there is evidence and empirical experience indicating
that the work of Ethiopia was mostly in relief and rehabilitation, especially up to the early
1990s (CRDA, 1998).
There is little quantitative information on the NGOs contribution in Ethiopia. Based on
available data from disaster prevention and preparedness commission (DPPC), the role of
NGOs in relief and development is briefly presented. Apart from figures provided by CRDA,
there is little data to show the cost of NGOs relief and rehabilitation program in Ethiopia.
However, disaster prevention and preparedness commission has collected statistics on the
number of beneficiaries from NGOs relief operations for the period 1984-1996 (13 years).
During this period annual number of beneficiaries ranged from about 173.000 in 1996,
exceptionally good food production year, to 12.82 million in 1990, the year Ethiopia was at
the height of its political crisis. The average for the 13-year period was 6.5 million, or 13-15

percent of the total population. The high number of beneficiaries witnessed in the year 1990
to 1994 must be indicative of more intensive NGOs involvement in relief and rehabilitation
programs than during the historic famine year of 1985. The must have been the extremely
weak development base and pervasive abject poverty that characterized Ethiopia in that
period (CRDA, 1998).
2.2.2. The role of education and health on poverty reduction and economic growth
2.2.2.1 Human development
The concept of human development has significantly influenced the world development
theory. It goes beyond the conventional theories of stabilization and economic growth and put
people at the center of all the development process. According to human development report
(1995). Human development model constitute four fundamental components (economic
growth), equity, sustainability (generation to generation) and empowerment of people
(Esthete, 1995). Recent developments worldwide suggest that increased investment in human
capital is crucial for sustained productivity and rapid economic growth. Finding effective
ways of building human capital in developing countries is, therefore, of our most important
for research and policy makers concerned with economic development.
In order to break the poverty cycle, the role and the inter relationship of different elements of
human development must be recognized, and thus poverty reduction strategies should be
developed accordingly.
The inter relationship of some of the elements of human development includes the reciprocal
and mutual inter relationships between income and health, education, nutrition and fertility.
(see .seamless web-policy and poverty).
Education is one of the factors that have contributed to the declining trend in fertility in
developing countries a higher level education is also associated with a higher standard of
health. These effects then feedback in to productivity, i.e., a healthier work force is more
productive. And lower fertility is likely to lead to more healthy children who may learn

through school to be healthier and more productive adults. Thus education also contributes to
economic growth through its direct and positive effects on fertility and health.

2.2.2.2. Education and poverty reduction

Education produces knowledge, skills, values, and attitudes. It is essential for civic order and
citizenship and for sustained economic growth and the reduction of poverty (World bank,
1995).
Education is also about culture, it is the main instrument for disseminating the
accomplishment of human civilization. Education is also critical for economic growth and
poverty reduction. The rapid increase in knowledge and the pace of changing technology raise
the possibility of sustained economic growth with more frequent job changes during
individuals lives. These developments have created two key priorities for education it must
meet economies growing demands for adaptable workers who can readily acquire new skills,
and it must support the continued expansion of knowledge. For instance, the World Bank
strategy for reducing poverty focuses on promoting the productive use of labor the main asset
of the poor and providing basic social service to the poor. Investment in education contributes
to the accumulation of human capital, which is essential for higher incomes and sustained
economic growth, helps reduce poverty by increasing the productive of the poor by reducing
fertility and improving health, and by equipping people with the skills they need to participate
fully in the economy and in society. More generally, education helps strengthen civil
institutions and build national capacity and good governance, which are the critical elements
in the implementation of sound economic and social policies (Bibangambha, 1985).
Education contributes to economic growth directly and indirectly (Eshete, 1995). Different
researcher in various countries has demonstrated the like and correlation of education and
economic growth, however, causal relation between them cannot fully establish,
Nonetheless, strong support economic growth, rather than the other way around
(Psacharopoulos and wood hall, 1985).
According to research conducted by Mekonen Tadesse (1997), examination of the poverty
situation by educational level of household head reveals that higher level education is

correlated with lower poverty. The poverty incidence is below 15% for households whose
heads have college education, 28% for heads with secondary education and about 46% for
those with primary education only. The poverty incidence as well as the contribution to
aggregate poverty is not only lower for better educated household heads but they have also
been declining over time. Household with no schooling, on the other hand, experienced rising
and high poverty incidence (above 60%) there situation also worsened over time. This finding
suggests that in human resources development could have important bearing on poverty
reduction.
One may ask the case of the Ethiopian education as to whether it has played a dynamic rule in
economic growth and development. Apparently, it has a long way to go so as to play a
dynamic role in the process of economic development. Despite the expansion of education in
Ethiopia, the parallel growth of population has hindered sufficient reduction of adult illiteracy,
which is estimated at 77% for female and 55% for male in 1995 (World bank 1996).
Educational service geared towards the poor is said to be primary schooling rather than
higher-level education. Primary education is known to yield higher private and social rate of
return than higher level education. In addition, primary education is the foundation of
schooling in which the majority of the poor can have an opportunity of participating; these are
some of the reasons why primary schooling is considered to play significant role poverty
reduction. In Ethiopia primary education is currently available to approximately 26% of
school-age children. Ethiopia needs the participation of the private sector and NGOs to help
make education accessible to a large majority of its children that have hit hero to been
deprived of any form of education (Getachew and Lulseged, 1996).
2.2.2.3 Health service provision and poverty reduction
Good health is a goal in itself, for being the source of longer and healthier life. Moreover, the
economic development and prosperity of any society depends on the health status of its
people, because good health increases the economic productivity of individuals. Human
development is impossible without adequate provision of health service (World development
report, 1980).

Health and socio-economic development are mutually interdependent health has a very
decisive role in rendering appropriate service to both the peasantry and the agro-industrial
workers for the enhancement of improved agricultural and industrial production and to enable
accelerated socio-economic development, which in turn is essential for the promotion, and
adequate development of health service programs (Getachew and Lulseged, 1996).
According to Lipton (1998:5), the principle of joint requirement is clearest among inputs of
human capital. Given the amount of resources per beneficiary available for primary health
care and for food supplement, a much greater gain in child health is achieved if those
resources are divided between those two uses than if the resources are concentrated on either
one of the uses similar links have been found between education, especially female education,
and the returns to resources used for health improvement. Michael Lipton in his book entitled
successes in anti-poverty has shown that farmers, and even farm workers, improve their
prospects of escaping poverty through agriculture if they have some education with in a
country, therefore, success in anti-poverty policy is usually advanced by increasing the
proportion of health and education resources going to basic and primary care / or to the
poorest groups or regions.

3. RESEARCH METHODLOGY
3.1. Description of Study Area
3.1.1 Administrative, socio-economic and demographic background
With an estimated area of about 85, 410 km2, the Afar National Regional State (ANRS) has
an estimated total population of 1,493,409 out of which 57% are males (Statistical Abstract
projection, Based on CSA, 2006). About 91.8% of the population is rural inhabitants. The
major ethnic compositions are the Afar (91.8%), Amhara (4.5%), Argobba (0.92%), Tigrayans
(0.82%), Oromo (0.7%), Welayta (0.45%), and Hadiya (0.013%).
3.1.2 Location
Dubti is found in Afar region in zone one (awsi- rasu) and it is 12 km far away from samara
which is capital city of Afar region. It is located from the north Kori and Alidaar woreda, from

Awra woreda. It covers 8890 square km. It has 15s kebeles among this two kebeles are urban
and the remaining 13s kebeles are rural. And also has more than 25000 hectares of irrigation
farming, geothermal power and spring water.
3.1.3

Demographics

Based on figures published by the Central Statistical Agency in 2005, this woreda has an
estimated total population of 87,197, of whom 36,281 were males and 50,916 were females;
24,236 or 27.79% of its population are urban dwellers, which is greater than the Zone average
of 14.9%. With an estimated area of 3601.4 square kilometers, Dubti has an estimated
population density of 24.21 people per square kilometer.

3.1.4 Agriculture
A sample enumeration performed by the CSA in 2001 interviewed 1676 farmers in this
woreda, who held an average of 0.72 hectares of land. Of the 1.21 square kilometers of
private land surveyed, 28.15% was under cultivation, 64.53% fallow, 3.46% was devoted to
other uses. Although the percentage in pasture or woodland was missing from the CSA
enumeration, a later survey reported 0.5% of the woreda had tree cover. For the land under
cultivation in this woreda, 27.9% in planted in cereals like maize; none of the land was
planted in pulses and vegetables. All of the farmers reporting only raised livestock. For land
tenure in this woreda, 94% own their land; the figures for those renting or holding land under
other forms of tenure are missing
3.2 Method of Data Collection
3.2.1 Type and method of data collection
The study was conducted on secondary data that are gathered from various sources like
magazine, document, journal, published, non published books and internet. Afar pastoralist
development association (APDA) and Dubti woreda education office.
3.2.2 Method of data analysis

The study was analyzed based on descriptive statistics with the way of expression on
application of the tables and percentage.

4. DATA ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION

This section comprises three sections that attempt to examine the objectives outlined in
chapter one of the paper. The first section looks into the first two objectives of the paper,
which attempt to assess the rationale of NGOs existence and to assess the contribution of
NGOs development of education and health sector in the Dubti woreda. Finally employment
creation in Dubti woreda.
4.1 The Distribution and Rationale for the Existence of NGOs in Dubti woreda
The population in Afar is in need of external assistance to meet minimum food needs. The
results of the mid-year assessment identified that 448,500 people are estimated to need
assistance for the second half of the year. Requirements for the July to December 2002 period
are estimated at a total of US$15.8 million for 40,365 tones of cereals.

NGOs have emphasized small-scale projects with immediate and visible outputs. Most of
these activities will be implemented by NGOs already active in the region and will be
implemented in partnership with the government. This collection of proposals is not
exhaustive, and further proposals are expected from other NGOs who are in the process of
researching and preparing their documents.
4.1.1 Investment
Afar region has good potential for investment on Agriculture, mining, industry and tourism.
However, there is very limited investment going on in the region in relation to the existing
potential. The regional government and NGOs shall promote investment in all sectors and
create job opportunities for the ever increasing pastoral population.

Table (1) regional distribution of NGOs by sector

Sector

Agriculture

Education

Health

Kebeles

01 center
Dabal
Ayrolaf
Bayahile
Sardo
Babadeyta
Magenta
Han nakis
Sekoyta

Water and
sanitation

1
1
-

1
1
1
-

1
1

total

1
1
1
1
2
1

12.5
12.5
12.5
12.5
25
12.5

Saha
Tangayi koma
1
Total
1
2
3
2
%
12.5
25
37.5
25
Source: from DWEOF Un published Document, 2011

1
8
100

12.5
100

Table 1 shows the kebeles distribution of NGOs by sector. About 12.5 percent of the NGOs
are involved in agriculture which are mainly concerned with income generating activities.
The NGOs involved in health 37.5 percent and education are only about 25 percent and water
sanitation 25 percent.
The target groups comprise poor or vulnerable people in structurally poor and drought prone
areas in all the kebeles. The target groups include malnourished children in precarious
conditions, orphans, street children, poor pregnant and nursing mothers, the disabled and the
elderly. That means, the NGO activities are concentrated in marginalized areas where they are
most needed. NGOs aim to improve the living conditions of vulnerable groups through
activities that directly benefit vulnerable population and support social assistance projects
executed by them that target vulnerable groups. Such programs aim to reduce unemployment
and increase production and productivity, and improve household income and employment in
the urban sector.
Table (2) NGOs projects by sector
no
1

Sector
Agriculture

No. of NGO projects %

1

Education and training

Health

e
4
6

Environment and soil

protection
Water supply and
sanitation
Total

DWAOF Published document, 2011

Beneficiaries
1
600
2.5
1700
25
3
24000
7.5

25

100.0

3000
29300

S
u
c
:

Table 2 also shows crude information on the number of beneficiaries by sector. However,
summing up the different sector beneficiaries to arrive at the total number of beneficiaries
NGOs reached will be misleading as one could be beneficiaries of different sectors.
In terms of sartorial beneficiaries, there seem to be more beneficiaries in health services
followed by water supply and sanitation, all evolving around health (neglecting others). But
such information is provided in thed, the total number of beneficiaries of eight (8 ) NGOs
provided as about 29300 out of which some 37.5 and 25 percent were health and water supply
& sanitation beneficiaries, respectively. As indicated in the above table, the number of health
beneficiaries seemed exaggerated because there are indirect beneficiaries of health services
provided by government owned health institution for which NGOs have extended capacity
building activities either in upgrading the institutions with necessary facilities or providing
drugs.
Table 3 level of food poverty in woreda

Category
Rural

Percent of poor
(Below food poverty line) (Po)
86.7%

Urban

63.3%

Source: APDA unpublished document, 2012

Hence, based on the above classification, 86.7% of the population in the rural cannot afford to
spend enough to consume the minimum food requirement 63.3% of urban dwellers cannot
meet their daily minimum nutritional requirements. Moreover, it is found that food poverty is
higher is in rural.
According to APDA the amount of basic non-food requirement is found to be 65.7 USD
(427.22 Birr) per annum per adult. This maked the absolute poverty line in the woreda to be
165.4 USD (1075.03 Birr per annum per adult. Hence, at the emotional level, an adult person
requires a minimum of birr 1075.03 birr per annum or 89.59 birr per month in order to escape
absolute poverty. An avert. An average family in Ethiopia has 4.2 adult* members. According

to the above poverty line, therefore, a typical family in woreda needs an income, of 4,515 birr
per annum or 376 birr per month to escape absolute poverty.

4.1.2 Ongoing relief operation

4.1.2.1 Food aid
Food aid is currently distributed to 37,112 people in the woreda by WFP and DPPC based on
the 2005 appeal. The ration for the month of January, 2005 has been distributed in woreda,.
However, the regional DPPB in its emergency project plan estimated 5600 beneficiaries for
2005. The ration is only 15kg cereals /person/month, a rate which is used nationally.
However, this was not complemented with oil or other food items.

The distribution of food to drought affected areas averts the need of pastoralists to liquidate
their livestock capital via distress sales in order to purchase food. As a drought period
lengthens, herd productivity falls further as does the number of non-essential stock available
for sale. Pastoralists are forced into sales of breeding females, a strategy which indicates a
situation of acute stress since females represent herd capital, crucial to the continued
maintenance and future growth of herd numbers. The team did not however, observe female
cattle being sold at the market place.
The distribution of food aid may help reduce distress sale of live stocking as the need for
Livestock sales to purchase food are minimized. Pastoralists with smaller herds at the start of
a drought may see their herds fall to zero, if they need to sell stocks to purchase food. Food
aid distribution averts the need to sell livestock to buy food. (Where losses are proportional
among herds of all sizes, owners of larger herds are more likely to end up with a herd big
enough to form a breeding nucleus. Thus in the absence of food aid, drought affected
pastoralists are encouraged to keep larger herds). Large stockholders are also better able to
minimize their losses by policies of herd dispersion and species diversification.

Table 4 measures of absolute poverty.

Category

% of total Poverty

Poverty

Poverty

Contribution

population

index (P0)

gap (P1)

severity(P2)

to poverty

Rural

86.0

47.5

0.13

0.05

89.8

Urban

14.0

33.2

0.10

0.04

10.2

Source: DPPC published document 2010

Poverty index (P0) measures the numbers in total population living below the poverty line, i.e.
the proportion of population falling below the poverty line.
Poverty gap (intensity) (P1) measures the extent to which the incomes of the poor lie below
the poverty line. In other words, it measures the intensity of poverty by averaging the distance
between the expenditure of the poor person and the poverty line.
Poverty severity (P2) is an index that shows the severity of poverty by squaring the gap
between the expenditure of the poor individual and the poverty line. Because the index gives
more weight to the poverty of the poorest, it measures the degree of inequality among the
poor implying that transferring in come to the poorest from the better-off poor should lower
the poverty index.
Contribution to poverty indicates the proportion of the poor who are found in a given area
out of the total number of poor people in the woreda. The poverty gap is higher in rural areas
when compared to the poverty gap in urban areas. The poor in rural areas are on average 13
per cent short of fulfilling the required minimum expenditure while the urban poor are on
average 10 percent short. Similarly, the table indicates greater severity of poverty in rural
areas than in urban areas. In other income/expenditure* in the woreda, which is birr 1087.8 or
about USD 167.4 significant variation around the national average is observed, however,
between rural and urban areas. The level of per capita income/expenditure in urban areas on
average is about USD 217.1, while that for the rural areas is about USD 159.3 hence, a person
living in urban areas enjoys on average a 36 per cent higher annual income than a person
living in rural areas.

4.2 The contribution of NGOs development of education and health sector in the Dubti
woreda
4.2.1 Health sector contribution of NGOs
4.2.1.1 Human health contribution of NGOs
Health service coverage was only 29.6% in 2000 and it increased to 39% in 2005. (Regional
Health Bureau Report). The health problems in Dubti woreda include communicable diseases,
malaria, respiratory diseases, and malnutrition, which are known to be the leading causes of
mortality and morbidity. The majority of the population of the woreda has no access to
potable water. About 35.7% of the households get drinking water from rivers and lakes,
15.72% unprotected well/spring, 4.17% protected well/spring, 36.83% public tap and 7.57%
own tap.
Table (5) comparative health service coverage by different organization
Hospital
GOV
NGO
PRIVATE
Total

1
1

Clinic*

3
2
6
11

27.3
18.2
54.5
1oo

Health
center
8
16
2
26

%
30.8
61.5
7.7
100

Source; ANRS Heath bureau Document 2012

The health service coverage of the woreda is variously quoted to be around 30-45% table 5
shows the comparative health service coverage by different organizations in the woreda.
Hence, 54.5 % the majority of clinic services are delivered by the private sector. while the
clinics of (27.3%) and there is one hospital in the woreda is run by the government
respectively. 18.2 % of clinic services are provided by NGOs and the 16 (61.5%) of majority
of health center services which are delivered by the NGOs in remote areas where there is no
service of basic infrastructure, 30.8% of the service coverage of health center services which
are delivered by the government and finally, the smallest coverage of (7.7%) of health center
services which are delivered by the private

4.2.1.2 Private veterinary drug supplies

Privatized drug supply systems are unviable in the woreda given the geographically dispersed
nature of the population, poor infrastructure,

limited roads, poor communication systems,

poor water supply and limited monetization of communities.

Since 2000 no budget has been allocated for government purchases of drugs and vaccines. In
2003/2004, the budget allocated for the purchase of drugs for 4 million livestock population
was only 250,000 birr. For 2004/2005, the availability of budget for a drug purchase is
unclear. Unlike other regions decentralization of capital budget is not yet applied properly.
4.2.2 Education sector contribution of NGOs Education
The education coverage of Afar region is one of the lowest in the country. Hence people
coming out for non pastoral employment are very low. Thus development actors should work
to improve the education coverage and lay the foundation for diversification of livelihood.
School and mobile school curriculum
School and mobile school curriculum should include agriculture, environmental conservation
for semi arid environments, business planning and management, accounting and commercial
stocking issues should be included as part of school curriculum. This will also encourage
commercial thinking in regard to livestock management. Both mobile and sedentary schools
should include the above as part of school curriculum. This will help 37 diversify sustainable
livelihood opportunities. Demonstration plots within schools will encourage children and
thereby reach the parents of children in schools.
Table (6) distribution of primary schools by providers and regions

Kebeles

NGOs

GOV

Total

O1 center

Dabal

Bayahele

Gurmmuedal

Babadeyta

Hanakis

Ayrolafa

Sekoyta

Magenta

Total

63.7%

36.3%

100%

Source: Afar social sector study report, 2011

The table is depicted that the distribution of primary schools involvement is more NGOs than
Government. The 63.7% of distribution of primary schools by NGOs and the remaining
36.3% of distribution of primary schools by local Government. Although that all kabeles have
primary schools, still there are no services in all kabeles in the woreda.

Table (6) number of schools in primary and secondary education

Item
Government
NGO
Total
%share: Government
NGO

1999
4
3
57.2
42.8

2000
3
6
33.3
66.7

2001
-

2002
4
2

SOURCE;
ANRSOEB published
66.7
33.3

document, 2011
The table is depicted

that the share of government and NGOs involvement on the number of primary and secondary
schools which have constructed last four year. The 57.2% of share of involvement on primary
and secondary schools by government and the remaining 42.8 % of involvement on primary
schools by NGOs in 1999. And The 33.3% of share of involvement on primary and secondary

schools by government and the 66.7% of involvement on primary schools by NGOs in 2000.
The 66.7% of share of involvement on primary and secondary schools by government and the
33.3% of involvement on primary schools by NGOs in 2002.
Table (7) number of students enrolled in general education* (in 000)
Item
Government
NGO
Total
%share: Government
NGO
ANRSOEB, annual statistical report, 2011

2000
2001
2002
14614
14716 14730
1534
2137
2649
16148
16853 17379
90.5%
87.3%
84.7%
9.5%
12.7%
15.2%

Source:

The table depicts a general declining trend in the number of students who enrolled by
government during in the three years it increase from 14614(90.5%) to 14716(87.3%) in
2000/01 to 14730(84.7%) in 2002 in Dubti woreda respectively.
The number of students who sponsored by NGOs also indicated only marginal increase during
this period, i.e. from 1534(9.5%) in 2000 to 2137(12.7%) in 2001 and 2649(15.2%) in 2002 in
the woreda respectively. However, the share of NGOs on enrollment of schools and students
in general education increase from 9.5% and 12.7% enrolled students in 2000/01 and increase
from 12.7% to 15.2% in 2001/02, respectively,
4.3 NGOs and employment creation
Table (8) NGO staff distribution by profession and location
Headquarter

Male

Female

No %
.

No.

Total
%

No.

Staff type
Clerical/secretarial
Para-professional(2yr

8
35

8.9
3.9

24
16

42.1
28.1

32
51

21.8
34.7

diploma/equivalent

27

30

11

19.3

38

25.8

20

22.2

10.5

26

17.7

Professional (1st degree and

above)

Total

90

100

57

100

147

100

Source: DPPC, 2010

The contribution of the NGO sector in the area of employment can be seen from tale (8)
below. The table shows the total number of NGOs staff in the woreda. to determine the weight
of NGOs employment creation in the economys labor force, one is supposed to use the total
labor force employed in the woreda instead of population. The data in the table shows the role
on NGOs in employment during the period 2000 to2003.
There is, of course, direct employment opportunities in NGOs activities in the woreda.
Excluding employment in relief and non-reported on-going development projects, NGOs
employ over 147 persons of whom 38.8 percent are female. About 61.2 percent are male of
the employment is at project site. And one can observe that largest share of employment at
NGO level is taken by for Para-professional counting51 (34.7%). The staff that hold diploma
are account for 38 (25.8%) and degree and above staff accounts for about 26(17.7%) . The
remaining 32 (21.8) % constitute clerical staff.

5 CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATION

5.1. Conclusion
NGOs are not simple in organizational form and in development roles. The
comparative advantage of NGOs lies in their ability to innovate, to adapt to local
conditions, and to reach and to work with the poor. These positive futures are
functions of their basic values, specially skills, small size, flexibility and freedom from
political constraints. Here, one may conclude that the distribution of NGOs in the
woreda is uneven and their initiatives in different kebels do not seem to be based on
in-depth study and assessment of various factors: income, population size, etc.
0ne may conclude that the government alone may not be able to mobilize all the
resources required to expand educational and health services and reduce poverty. The
NGOs sector can play an important role in providing educational and health services

in better quality with cost- effectively. NGOs schools and training centers have close
links with the world of work which have tangible contribution in increasing the
productivity and income of the poor.
The kebels distributions of school seems not be based on population size and other
considerations
Lower level clinics in remote areas help access the poor section of the society and also
provide the cheapest health service. Since the current government health policy is in
line with this trend, NGOs need to work in close partnership with government to share
experience and build the capacity of the government. It can thus be conclude that there
is difficulty to make comprehensive analysis and see the weight of NGOs contribution
in employment creation.
4.2 Recommendation
Government organization needs to learn some of the lessons from NGOs strength of
flexibility and management quality, and their cost-effectiveness
When there is market failure (generally it is believed that market tends to be especially
vulnerable to failure developing countries) where much of the population lacks the
basic purchasing power to participate, such organizations that are remedies for market
failure may be particularly relevant there.
NGOs and government should focus on rural based development intervention that
contributes to increase human resources development and enhance food security.
The kebeles distribution of NGOs is should be based on the population size, living
standard and other socio-political consideration.
NGOs should be able to coordinate among themselves to give infrastructural services
like road and make remote /rural areas accessible. Some studies reveal that NGOs are
concentrated in areas where there are government development activities and services.
This creates redundancy.
The government should give balanced and faire distribution of NGOs during their
project appraisal and selection process. And they should recommend NGOs to give
attention for equity and income distribution objectives through balanced distribution
of their projects and services among the different regions in the country.

 There is a clear need to focus more on the quality of NGOs involvement than the
number of NGOs or funds disbursed through them. The growing up stream
involvement of NGOs reflects promising qualitative changes.
Demonstration and transfer of NGOs strength to government organization and local
NGOs through technical support and training (capacity building).
Improvement in the existing policy environment, peace and security is likely to
encourage the formation of many international and local NGOs, i.e., attempt should be
made to create an enabling environment for international NGOs in order to attract
more NGOs with high investment potential and capable of bringing qualitative
changes.
The control-oriented style of management common to government organization is not
effective when the goal is innovative problem solving and the mobilization of
voluntary energy and resources. Government may need to revisit or resort to NGOs
style of management and minimize control-oriented style of management in areas
which need such style of management.
Various level of government should be strengthened and equipped to coordinate,
monitor and evaluate the performance of NGOs on objective and rational basis
relating to their projects economic and social impact.
NGOs need to expand school and vocational training centers to increase the number of
beneficiaries.
Balance the distribution of health facilities among different kebeles.
Enhance the initiatives to strengthen the capacity of the government.
The salaries and the number of expatriate staff employed should be included in the
database to make appropriate and objective analysis in this area.
Since poverty is a complex and an integrated phenomenon caused by a multiplicity of
factors, no single investment will suffice. To operate on an interrelated set of variables,
an inter related and integrated set of approaches and policies is required.
There is a need to design formats to be used by all NGOs for reporting annual
achievements and project implementation to government bodies.
Attempt should also be made to incorporate data on the national and expatriate work
forces to analyze NGOs employment creation in the country in more comprehensive
ways.
The database should be organized in such a way that data would be available on all the
NGOs operating in the country in uniform manner.

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