The Impact of Energy Use on Poor Urban Livelihoods in ... - DfID

A study <strong>of</strong> the impact <strong>of</strong> energy use on poor urban livelihoods in Arusha, Tanzania
Figure 4.8: Variables influencing the performance <strong>of</strong> the practice component
Variable
Comment
Length <strong>of</strong> association
Established Sheilah Meikle, the principal researcher, the CDTI team and AMC have worked together with
working DPU students in Arusha since 1999. During that time they have worked on a variety <strong>of</strong> social
relationships development field work projects, two <strong>of</strong> which were energy focused. Patrice North was a
member <strong>of</strong> the 2002 student body.
During this period it has been possible establish open and effective working relationships.
Local
presence
and
experience
CDTI and WODSTA are local organisations.
DPU has worked in Arusha for the past 5 years. All partners therefore have understanding <strong>of</strong>
the nature <strong>of</strong> the local institutional and cultural context.
Inherent and acquired characteristics
Team
members
Other
stakeholders
Trust
Local
authority
Community
Key team members had the relevant skills, knowledge and commitment to undertake this work.
<strong>The</strong>y had the ability to encourage the participation <strong>of</strong> others, adapt to challenging situations
and keep the study focused. <strong>The</strong>y were also able to work concurrently at a number <strong>of</strong> distinct
but mutually reinforcing levels. <strong>The</strong>y were able to take advantage <strong>of</strong> opportunities and to
identify, work with and develop others.
Presence <strong>of</strong> local stakeholders willing to collaborate with the team and use their knowledge
and connections to assist the project.
Trust resulting from established relationships between key individuals in AMC and the project
team.
Long term engagement between the team and the study communities resulted in
understanding and appreciation by the communities that the purpose <strong>of</strong> the study was not
merely research but had a practical purpose which could lead to community benefits.
Study design and implementation
Design
A participatory approach was very beneficial. Workshops were particularly valuable tools.
Implement- Careful preparation was essential to achieve successful implementation <strong>of</strong> all elements. It was
Ation also essential to closely monitor the performance <strong>of</strong> the various stakeholders.
Source: <strong>The</strong> authors
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Development Planning Unit, UCL London
Dr. Sheilah Meikle and Patrice North