Abstract: Submission #46

Abstract This study sought to explore the role of Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) in poverty eradication in Qwa-Qwa, located in the Eastern Free State. A qualitative research approach was employed, utilising a case study design and purposive sampling techniques to select participants. The sample comprised thirteen individuals, including nine from three NGOs, three from the Department of Social Development, and one Local Economic Development manager. Data were collected through one-on-one interviews guided by an interview framework. Thematic analysis was conducted using Braun and Clarke's (2006) six-step framework and undergirded by the Sustainable Livelihoods Approach which is holistic and helps in understanding livelihoods, particularly those of people in rural areas and was applied to interpret the data. The findings underscored that NGOs play a crucial role in eradicating poverty in Qwa-Qwa through their respective strategies. However, NGOs faced several challenges that hindered their effectiveness in addressing poverty issues in the region. These challenges included insufficient funding, lack of stakeholder support, a shortage of volunteers, community disengagement, and corruption. It is essential to support NGOs in rural areas by providing the necessary resources through multi-stakeholder collaborations to alleviate poverty effectively. This study concluded that NGOs, the government, and private partners must adopt intentional and pragmatic approaches to poverty eradication and be equipped with the necessary skills to tackle complex poverty challenges. Finally, NGOs must be recognised as catalysts for poverty eradication efforts in rural communities, and all initiatives should be supported.
Keywords: Non-Governmental Organizations; poverty eradication; rural development; stakeholder collaborations; community development.