From dormitory to business zone? : a case study of issue-based aid in Orlando East

![CDATA[Orlando East is one of the oldest, and remains one of the most economically disadvantaged, areas of greater Soweto. In spite of nearly two decades of ANC rule, local economic development options remain limited. Since 2008 World Vision has implemented a pilot project to promote local economic development in this urban area. It has engaged a range of community, business, government and NGO stakeholders to develop partnerships, facilitate greater financial literacy and advocate on behalf of the most disadvantaged. The project has been something of a departure for how NGOs attempt to tackle systemic economic problems in the region and, if successful, might point towards a more inclusive model for improving the delivery of aid through intentional learning processes. Here we present findings based primarily on a series of interviews with community members involved in the project. We show several of the challenges facing urban economic development programming in Soweto. Economic options remain limited and heavily dependent upon government support. However, the NGO has been able to build a strong organizational network that provides a range of training, business development and employment-related services. Such networks can provide an important supplement to government authorities, and help build more sustainable economic development options for the target community.]]