Subtitle/Alternate Title

The Power Centres: Addressing Poverty and Powerlessness through Participatory Action

First Advisor

Scott Dupree

Second Advisor

Elisabeth Moolenaar

Third Advisor

Nina Miller

Reader

Elisabeth Moolenaar

College

Regis College

Degree Name

Master of Development Practice

Document Type

Thesis - Open Access

Comments

This Capstone Project provides a unique and insightful case study of community-led development in rural Kenya. It offers practical strategies for addressing poverty, powerlessness, and inequality through a decolonized approach that centers on community empowerment, local knowledge, and sustainable practices. This work is a valuable resource for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers interested in community development, social change, and equitable development in Africa.

Number of Pages

48 pages

Abstract

In Homa Bay County, Kenya, a community-led development initiative called the Power Centre is transforming the fight against poverty and powerlessness. Grounded in principles of decolonization and participatory action, this project addresses the root causes of marginalization by empowering residents of Kokal Village to become active agents of change. Through a robust mixed-methods research approach, the project identifies systemic challenges and leverages existing social networks to build a sustainable, locally-owned model for development. The Power Centre implements a three-pronged strategy, focusing on increasing community participation, strengthening existing groups, and fostering collaborative networks to weave a robust support system. By addressing immediate needs, investing in capacity building, and promoting social enterprise, this project aims to create a thriving local economy and resilient community that can overcome historical inequalities and shape its own future. This case study provides valuable insights into the potential of community-led, decolonized development approaches to achieve lasting social and economic transformation in rural Kenya and beyond.

Date of Award

Summer 2024

Location (Creation)

Denver, Colo.

Rights Statement

All content in this Collection is owned by and subject to the exclusive control of Regis University and the authors of the materials. It is available only for research purposes and may not be used in violation of copyright laws or for unlawful purposes. The materials may not be downloaded in whole or in part without permission of the copyright holder or as otherwise authorized in the “fair use” standards of the U.S. copyright laws and regulations.

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