Assessing the role of NGO’s in community development and building social capital: A case study of farm orphan support trust of Zimbabwe

Abstract

Assessing the Role of NGOs in Community Development and Building Social Capital: A Case Study of Farm Orphan Support Trust of Zimbabwe Social capital has become an important concept in development discourse, especially with regard to community-based development. The concept of social capital and the role of supportive non-governmental organisations are receiving attention as critical elements in encouraging and assisting community development. This research was conducted to assess the role of Farm Orphan Support Trust in building social capital as a community development strategy in farming communities. The findings from the research showed that intermediary players are a key catalyst but can only be truly effective if they enable local linkages and bridging linkages for communities, not only to cope but also to progress. The arguments reveal that social capital on its own is not a sustainable community development strategy, but making use of the available capital through the formation of networks, groupings and co- operatives is essential for meaningful development. Community benefits from social resources that are created through social networks. At the same time, collaborations amongst intermediary players ensure that there is prioritisation of development focus for the best interests of the community. The ability of intermediary players to work together also creates trust within the community and hence they are viewed as part of the community, which is a critical element of social capital. Social and community ties are key components of the social capital concept. Farm Orphan Support Trust has continued to use the available social capital in farm communities, which has created pockets of excellence and possible learning sites for future replication.