5.2 Formation and aims of groups

When questioned about the formation of their organisation or group, nearly a quarter of respondents stated that it had begun through the enthusiasm of one individual. (Table 1)

The number of organisations with a religious basis was considerably higher in Africa, accounting for 40% of respondents, compared with 21% in Asia. In Asia the role of individuals was significantly more important, with 33% of respondents selecting this compared with 16% in Africa (p<0.007).

Respondents were asked to indicate their three main aims in order of priority. Two major aims of groups were concerned with improving the situation within their target communities, by improving economic well-being (stated by 60%), and health (54%). Passing on information to the target communities was seen as the third most important aim (47%), with building up the knowledge of group members (30%) in fourth position. Aims which required either a high level of organisation or empowerment such as marketing produce co-operatively, gaining credit and seeking justice received a surprisingly low ranking.