Challenges of Strategy Implementation in Conflict Zones: the Case of Non- Governmental Organisations in Somalia

Abstract

Somalia has experienced civil war for over two decades with devastating results to the economy because of the state failure that accompanied the country’s civil war. However, there exists a vibrant NGO sector in Somalia especially since the country is almost totally dependent on foreign assistance. This study sought to find out what challenges NGOs in Somalia encounter when implementing their strategies. The study targeted NGOs operating in Somalia. A cross sectional survey was undertaken. The study used simple questionnaires to collect the relevant data. The questionnaires targeted the NGO’s Senior and middle level managers. A descriptive analysis was used to analyze the data that was collected. The results of the study identified inadequate funding as the main factor that frequently poses a challenge to strategy implementation by NGOs operating in Somalia. Other factors identified by the study that occasionally pose challenges to strategy implementation include civil war and terrorism, environmental uncertainty, unrealistic time frames to implement the strategy, employee turnover and lack of a proper regulatory framework. In addition, lack of capacity by employees, lack of commitment by stakeholders and resistance to change by employees were among other factors that were identified as infrequently impeding strategy implementation. The study concluded that strategy implementation is affected by factors found in an organisation’s environment whether internal or external. An organisation’s internal environment can give it an advantage over its competitors but if not managed well may hinder strategy implementation. On the other hand, the external environment is more uncertain and can likewise significantly impede strategy implementation. The study through its findings recommended that Non-Governmental Organisations operating in Somalia should give close attention to the identified challenges especially during the strategy formulation and implementation phases.