SELF-RELIANT DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVES AND SUSTAINABLE LIVELIHOODS: THE CASE OF ZAKUDIMBA PRODUCERS COOPERATIVE SOCIETY (ZAPCO)

Abstract

A number of community-based self-reliant (self-help) development projects have been implemented in Malawi in recent years. This study was aimed at examining conditions that lead to emergence of self-reliant projects and their contribution to rural livelihoods. The study was conducted at Zakudimba Producers Cooperative (ZAPCO) and used primary data. A mixed methods research was used for data collection. The qualitative component comprised focus group discussions (FGDs), key informant interviews and observations. The quantitative component used Individual Household Method (IHM). Non probability sampling methods were used to select ZAPCO zones and clubs for the FGDs. Probability sampling methods were used to select clubs for the IHM. From the selected clubs, a census method was employed to select members.The study found that small scale farmers were influenced by both internal and external factors to form clubs which later formed ZAPCO. The study found a strong sense of ownership for the cooperative existing among members and mechanisms are in place that would ensure its sustainability. Such mechanisms include participation of members in managing the cooperative, empowerment of members, use of local resources and access to markets. The study used disposable income per adult equivalent to measure income remaining after a household has met its food energy requirements. It was found that all households that participated in the study were food secure and had income remaining after meeting their food needs.