Perceptions re Community-Based Projects for Economic and Societal Development

Abstract

Perceptions and expectations are integral aspects which affect people's decision making to support community-based development programs. Few studies have explored the perceptions-behaviour relationship and more so the stakeholders' perceptions towards the sustainability of community-based agricultural projects especially aquaculture. An understanding of perceptions for different stakeholder groups in community-based projects can clear misconceptions, and identify factors that can unleash the full potential of the community-based projects, so as to achieve sustainable societal development. In Namibia, four out of six community-based fish farm projects have failed. Hence, there is a need to explore stakeholder perceptions for improvement. Adopting a qualitative research method with interview guide to collect primary data, the aim of the article is to understand the status quo, re-define stakeholders' roles, expectations, and perceptions about consultation, participation, empowerment, ownership, etc., of community-based aquaculture project improvement and sustainability in Namibia.