ABSTRACT

This study examines the complex role of campaigning NGOs in fostering sustainable
livelihoods within Zimbabwe’s challenging socio-political landscape. Focusing on ActionAid
Zimbabwe, the Zimbabwe Environmental Law Association, and the Zimbabwe Coalition on
Debt and Development, the research employs a qualitative, multiple-case study approach,
drawing on document analysis, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions across
six districts. Grounded in an integration of the Sustainable Livelihoods Framework and Political
Process Theory, the study develops a new, context-specific Campaigning NGOs Sustainable
Livelihoods Framework (CNGO-SLF) to analyse the intricate interplay between advocacy
efforts and livelihood outcomes. Findings reveal that while these NGOs contribute to raising
awareness, influencing policy, and building community resilience, a critical disconnect exists
between their advocacy work and sustained, tangible improvements in livelihoods. This gap
is attributed to factors including inconsistent policy implementation, limitations of project-based
funding, challenges of attribution, and a restrictive political environment. Communities
acknowledge the value of NGO interventions in enhancing their understanding of
vulnerabilities and fostering livelihood diversification, yet express concerns about transient
engagement and the need for longer-term support. The study concludes that while
campaigning NGOs are vital actors, their effectiveness hinges on a holistic, long-term, and
context-specific approach that bridges the gap between advocacy and tangible change,
fostering genuine community ownership. The proposed CNGO-SLF offers a tool for navigating
these complexities. Recommendations are provided for NGOs, communities, the government,
and donors, emphasising collaboration, sustained engagement, and addressing structural
constraints. This research contributes to a nuanced understanding of campaigning NGOs in
development, offering theoretical and practical insights for fostering social justice, equitable
resource access, and community resilience in Zimbabwe and similar contexts.