10 Reasons Why International NGOs Struggle to Deliver Impact in Uganda
International non-governmental organizations (INGOs) play a significant role in Uganda’s development landscape, channeling billions of dollars into healthcare, education, poverty alleviation, and humanitarian aid. However, despite their resources and intentions, their effectiveness is often questioned. From cultural disconnects to systemic challenges, here are 10 reasons why INGOs frequently fall short of their goals in Uganda. 1. Cultural Misalignment and “One-Size-Fits-All” Solutions Many INGOs design programs based on Western frameworks without adapting to Uganda’s cultural, social, and economic realities. For example, agricultural projects promoting cash crops might ignore local dietary preferences or land tenure systems, leading to resistance or unsustainable outcomes. 2. Bureaucratic Inefficiencies and High Overheads INGOs often allocate large portions of funding to administrative costs, salaries for expatriate staff, and logistical overheads. A 2023 rep...