Abstracts Psychology

The role of community-based organisations in promoting the welfare of communities : a case study of Jozini Municipality

by Douglas Sydney Ngcobo

The objectives of the study were to assess the role of the Community-Based Organisation (CBO) in promoting the welfare of the communities in Jozini area in the uMkhanyakude district, to examine the challenges faced by Community-Based Organisations (CBOs) in HIV/AIDS prevention, care and support. The study also evaluates the strategies used by CBOs in their responses to the individual needs of the clients in the communities and establishes whether CBO managers and CBO committee members understand the need to conduct impact evaluation studies. The study used the quantitative research method and data was collected using self-administered questionnaires from the three participating CBOs and three primary health care facilities that responded to the study questions and replies were quantified and presented in the form of tables and graphs. This research examined the role of CBOs in promoting improved health standards and the welfare of the community members who are either infected or affected by HIV/AIDS. This revealed the fact that CBOs play a significant role in promoting the welfare of the communities, however, some gaps were also identified and recommendations were made to bridge such gaps in order for the CBOs to function more effectively and to continue to provide good quality services to the communities. Those recommendations were based on the gaps identified and if such recommendations are taken seriously, CBOs may become more effective and productive; they will be more sustainable and their interventions will be more likely to support the welfare of communities in the area of Jozini municipality. Advisors/Committee Members: Nzimakwe, Thokozani Ian (advisor).