NGOs, spirituality and community development in Northern Ghana: Challenges and sustainability

Abstract

The present study sought to identify barriers to sustainability as experienced by Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), including the faith-based ones. The work was based on case reviews and case studies of some NGOs, which worked in the northern parts of Ghana. The study used a qualitative approach of indepth interviews and focus group discussions. Reviews of the relevant textual materials supplemented the primary data. The study found a number of barriers to sustainability of the organizations, which affected their effective and efficient operation. Using religious models of sustainability and other approaches, the study suggests a combination of strategies for overcoming those barriers for their future existence. The study is important because it contributes to local and international theories of sustaining NGOs.