EVALUATING THE IMPACT OF LOCAL GOVERNANCE ON POVERTY REDUCTION, SOCIAL PROTECTION, AND INCLUSIVE DEVELOPMENT

Abstract

This study evaluates the role of local governance in advancing poverty reduction, social protection, and inclusive
development by employing a mixed methods approach combining quantitative and qualitative analyses. Secondary
data covering a ten year period were analyzed to assess trends in poverty headcount ratios, social protection
coverage, and inclusive development indicators across municipalities with varying governance capa cities.
Additionally, semi structured interviews and focus group discussions provided contextual insights into governance
processes, efficiency, and inclusiveness. Results indicate that municipalities with higher governance performance
scores achieved grea ter reductions in poverty, wider coverage of social protection schemes, and more equitable
development outcomes. The findings emphasize that participatory planning, transparency, and efficient service
delivery are critical drivers of success. However, syst emic challenges such as fiscal limitations, political
interference, and inadequate institutional capacity hinder progress in low performing areas. This research contributes
to policy discourse on strengthening governance capacity to promote equitable and s ustainable development at the
local level.