A Critical Analysis of Support for Economic Initiatives: The Case of the Support Mechanism of the Maroua-Mokolo Diocesan Development Committee

Abstract

This study focuses on the analysis of the approach of the Diocesan Development Committee (CDD) in promoting the socio-economic reintegration of populations, particularly young people and vulnerable individuals. The main objective is to examine the coherence, relevance, and limitations of the micro-enterprise support system implemented, as well as its contribution to improving incomes and fostering the economic integration of beneficiaries.

This research adopts a qualitative, analytical approach based on a constructivist paradigm. The identified scientific gap lies in the absence of a stabilized model for supporting economic initiatives in fragile contexts. The study is based on a documentary review of intervention strategies, project logical frameworks, CDD support practices, as well as theoretical contributions from development economics, human capital theory, microfinance, and participatory development. The analysis consists of comparing the practices of the Diocesan Development Committee with major development theories in order to identify strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement through interviews and participant observation. Nineteen value chains were selected, with an insertion rate of 94% achieved through targeted support for beneficiaries.

The results show that the approach is generally structured around a progressive pathway, ranging from awareness-raising to the creation of economic activities, and extending to the consolidation of micro-enterprises and potential access to economic support.

Classification JEL: L26

Paper type: Empirical Research