Sustainability or Dependency?

Sammanfattning

This thesis explores how Sida’s understanding and application of local ownership in Kenya’s development projects have evolved between 2003 and 2023. Using postcolonial theory as a framework, the study examines how historical and structural power dynamics influence the concept and practice of local ownership in the development cooperation and aid relationship between Sweden and Kenya. Through a qualitative case study approach, the analysis focuses on Sida’s policies and practices, considering their alignment with global development trends such as participatory development and localization. The findings indicate that Sida has increasingly prioritized inclusivity, community participation, and sustainability in its strategies. However, the lingering effects of colonial legacies and systemic inequalities continue to present challenges. Sida’s initiatives to support civil society organizations, decentralization, and environmental sustainability highlight progress in promoting local agency. Nonetheless, balancing donor priorities with recipient autonomy remains complex. This study adds to discussions on equitable development partnerships and offers recommendations for strengthening local ownership to foster more effective and sustainable development cooperation.