Abstract:
A study on participatory approach and development planning process was conducted
at Maswa District in Shinyanga Region. Overall objective of the study was to assess
participatory planning process for development; specifically the study assessed the
extent to which development stakeholders are informed about participatory planning
approach concept. Secondly, the study assessed the extent at which stakeholders
participate in the process and thirdly it assessed constraints that are being faced in the
course of using the approach. Cross-sectional research design was used. Study
findings show that 48% of respondents were not aware of the approach and the
concept. Knowledge on the approach and concept was lower (34%) for females
compared to males (54%). Findings revealed that majority of community members
(71%) do not attend village development planning meetings. CBOs and NGOs are
involved at implementation stage instead of being involved from plan preparation
stage. Majority of community members participate in plan implementation; however,
some CBOs fail to provide their contributions. Delay in releasing financial support
by development supporters has resulted to poor implementation of planned activities.
Findings in the study areas show that village assemblies are not regularly convened,
physical progress and financial reports are also not regularly communicated to
people. Generally, findings in the study areas showed that participatory planning
approach is a useful means for attaining sustainable development. Constraints to the
approach are; inadequate funds for facilitating the process, poor accountability and
transparency of some leaders. The study recommends; sensitisation of people on the
process, timely disbursement of funds, creation of active and empowered ward
facilitation team, regular follow ups and monitoring of district and ward facilitation
teams at village levels. Regular retraining of village and ward leaders on
participatory planning, formation of informal savings and credits to enhance CBOs’
ability to contribute for development activities is also recommended.
