Localization: making success more likely

Localization is the process of transferring the management and the leadership of an NGO from expatriates to local staff.

This important topic was brought to our attention by Aly Ndione of Senegal. His Master’s thesis was on ‘Localization of International NGOs: Potential Advantages and Disadvantages’. In it he presents an overview of different types of localization and gives examples of Senegalese organizations that went through the process. He describes the advantages and disadvantages of localization from the viewpoint of the local NGO as well as from that of the INGO. He also discusses the definition(s) and different degrees of localization as well as the reasons for localization.

He notes whole areas of irrationality shown by organizations and individuals, with emotional reactions rooted perhaps in the colonial era. He asks the question whether the reasons for non-localization are justified by accountability to donors or founders, or whether they are linked to cultural beliefs or stereotypes. Finally, he attempts to describe the prerequisite conditions that need to be in place in order to ensure the likelihood of a successful localization.

If you have experiences or points of view, write and contribute to the discussion here. If you want to contact Aly directly or read his paper, his email address is This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it .