AN EMPIRICAL ASSESSMENT OF PROJECT MANAGEMENT AND LEADERSHIP CHALLENGES IN DEVELOPMENT NON-GOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS: A CASE STUDY OF ETHIOPIAN EVANGELICAL CHURCH MEKANE YESUS DEVELOPMENT AND SOCIAL SERVICES COMMISSION
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Abstract
Background: Development NGOs like the Ethiopian Evangelical Church Mekane Yesus Development and Social Services Commission (ECMY-DASSC) carry a profound responsibility: transforming social missions into tangible community impact. However, in Ethiopia's increasingly volatile landscape, the bridge between visionary leadership and technical execution often falters. This study addresses the human and systemic challenges that arise when project management standards collide with bureaucratic hurdles and shifting security conditions.
Methodology: Using a triangulated mixed-methods approach, the research engaged 828 project personnel through census surveys and conducted in-depth interviews with executive leaders to capture the lived experience of managing development initiatives. Data were analyzed using SPSS and thematic content analysis.
Findings: The study identified a "Polarized Maturity Model". While the organization excels in relational areas like stakeholder engagement and quality (Mean: 4.13), it struggles with operational disciplines like Risk Management (Mean: 2.57) and Cost Management (Mean: 2.71). Externally, progress is frequently stifled by rigid government regulations and regional instability.
Conclusion: A critical "Leadership-Management Gap" exists. While leaders are deeply committed to their social mission, the lack of an adaptive, proactive management culture leaves projects vulnerable. Technical tools alone cannot ensure success; they require a leadership mindset capable of navigating complex, real-world uncertainties.
Recommendations: The research advocates for institutionalizing a Strategic Program Management Office, fostering a culture of proactive risk governance, and empowering staff with adaptive leadership training.
Keywords
Project Management, Managerial Leadership, NGO, PMBOK, ECMY-DASSC, Ethiopia, Risk Management.
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