Self-Help Initiatives in Rural Communities of Ondo East Local Government Area, Ondo State, Nigeria

Omolola Omisore, Federal University Of Technology, Akure, Nigeria

Self-help Initiatives in Rural Communities of Ondo East Local Government Area, Ondo State, Nigeria Abstract This study examines the contribution of community self-help to rural development in Ondo East LGA, Nigeria. Ondo East LGA is characterized by a predominantly agricultural economy. The objectives include identifying the types and number of self-help projects provided in the study area and examining their impact on the development. One hundred and sixty-nine (169) copies of a questionnaire were administered to households using the simple random sampling technique. Findings revealed the successful implementation of various self-help projects in the study area through the Community Development Associations (CDAs). Such projects include the provision of hand-dug wells and maintenance of boreholes, waste management, health care and services. The main source of funding is residents’ contributions. Challenges lack of cooperation and payment defaulting were discovered. Recommendations include developing strategies to encourage timely and consistent contribution.