Towards sustainable programme design? An examination of CSR initiatives within a Zambian SfD NGO

Abstract

Sport-for-development (SfD) programming in Zambia is at a crucial turning point since its inception in the late 1990s. Weak domestic relations with state government bodies have left the sector isolated and dependent on foreign aid and corporate sponsorship mainly through corporate social responsibility (CSR) schemes. This article considers the implications of the CSR funding landscape for one SfD non-governmental organisation (NGO) based in Zambia. 16 semi-structured interviews with SfD practitioners and stakeholders were conducted to better understand how CSR funding impacts programme design, development and sustainability. Thematic analysis revealed three key themes: 1) positive partnerships; 2) parachute partnerships; 3) challenges with partnerships. The implications of these findings are presented in a conclusion which stresses the need for a (Global) South-centred CSR Agenda in SfD (Idemudia, 2011).