The influence of local and international non-governmental institutions in preparation of poverty reduction strategies in low-income countries

Abstract

Poverty Reduction Strategy Papers (PRSPs) were among the world's most hopeful poverty reduction strategies at the tum of the millennium after failure of the donor imposed structural adjustment programs (SAPS) in low income countries (LICs). The distinguishing feature in the design of PRSPs was the conditional participation of civil society and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in the formulation of these policies. The World Bank and IMF adopted a participatory approach to poverty reduction in LICs to increase citizen participation and enhance country ownership. In Malawi where poverty is widespread, deep and severe both local NGOs and international non-governmental agencies participated in the formulation of Malawi's PRSP.