IMPACT AND SUSTAINABILITY OF DONOR-FUNDED PROJECTS ON LIVELIHOODS, SOCIAL SERVICES, AND ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT IN KOGI STATE

Abstract

This study examined the impact and sustainability of donor-funded interventions on poverty reduction, healthcare delivery, and socio-economic development in Kogi State, Nigeria, between 2014 and 2024. Using a mixed-method approach, primary data were collected through structured questionnaires administered to 372 respondents, while secondary data were sourced from project reports and government publications. Data analysis was conducted using descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests to determine the significance of relationships between donor interventions and key development outcomes. The results revealed that donor-funded projects have made a statistically significant contribution to poverty reduction (χ² = 124.586, p = 0.000), improved healthcare delivery (χ² = 35.258, p = 0.000), and demonstrated a degree of sustainability even after donor withdrawal (χ² = 46.898, p = 0.000). Respondents largely agreed that donor interventions enhanced income generation, job creation, and access to essential services, particularly benefiting vulnerable groups such as women and youth. However, sustainability challenges were identified, including inadequate local funding, weak maintenance culture, and limited post-project monitoring, which threaten long-term project continuity. The study concludes that donor interventions remain a key driver of socio-economic transformation in Kogi State, complementing government efforts to achieve poverty reduction and improved human development outcomes. It recommends strengthening local ownership, integrating donor projects into state budgetary systems, and developing robust post-donor financing and monitoring frameworks to safeguard gains. This research contributes to the body of knowledge by providing empirical evidence on the effectiveness and sustainability of donor-funded interventions at the sub-national level and offers practical insights for policymakers, development practitioners, and donor agencies seeking to optimize development assistance for lasting impact.