Evaluation Of Local Development Plan Implementation: The Case Of Assela Town Local Development Plan Projects.

Abstract

Ethiopia has implemented a number of urban plans, including structural plans, strategic plans, and Local Development Plan. Structural plans are framework plans that outline the future development of a particular area in urban centers. However, due to a number of challenges, many of these plans have expired without being implemented. Hence, the objective of this study was to investigate the Local Development plan implementation and its challenges in the Asella town. To meet the objectives of the study, the study adopted descriptive and explanatory research design. Among total of 1443 households from the purposively selected three kebeles: Wolkessa, Kombolcha, and Chilalo, 94 households were selected as a sample using systematic random sampling method to respond on survey questions. On the other hand, 46 key informants were purposively selected from offices to respond on interview questions. The data was analyzed by classifying it into qualitative and quantitative data. Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, such as ratios and percentages. Qualitative data, such as maps, images, and open-ended interviews, was analyzed using standards, norms, and content analysis. The major implementation challenges found in the implementation of the local development plans include are lack of community participation on the planning and implementation process, lack of financial capability on the municipality side, lack of technical capability, political instability and financial challenges. In Assela town, only 25% of the population participated in the preparation of an LDP urban plan. This lack of participation has significantly impacted the implementation of the plan and make it difficult to establish accountability measures and engage with community members. The spatial analysis shows that the cities transformation is solely by densification, proving in lack of implementation of the LDP. It is recommended that ultimate citizens participation in all sectors contribute for better implementation of the LDP’s, other recommendations include accountability in the land management system, capacity building for professionals and allocating sufficient resource for the projects.