Comparative Study of Donor Driven vs. Owner Driven Approach on the Way to “Build Back Better” of Gaza Private Demolished Houses

Abstract

More than four years after the end of the 2008/2009 war on Gaza Strip, much of the destruction wrought upon the Gaza Strip is still not been repaired. Only 1,700 housing units were rebuilt out of 3,481 that were totally demolished during that war. As selecting the suitable approach in housing reconstruction depends on the household’s degree of control over the reconstruction process, this research is aiming to improve the approaches adopted by donors in financing the reconstruction of war-damaged houses in Gaza Strip (Owner-driven and donor-driven approaches). Both field work and desk study approaches were used in the research for data collection, also, a combination of quantitative and qualitative approaches was used as strategies to data collection. Main tools used for data collection were: semi-structured interviews with Governmental and Non-Governmental institutions, questionnaire survey for beneficiaries, field observations and cases study. Results clearly emphasis that “owner-driven” approach has proven to be more successful than the “donor-driven” approach in all factors used to measure beneficiary perceptions include: quality and durability, time, cost, accountability and transparency, flexibility to make changes and satisfaction. Also, other advantages are addressed include strengthen the local economy and participation in psycho-social recovery. The study strongly recommends utilizing owner-driven approach in reconstruction of totally private demolished houses in Gaza Strip instead of donor-driven approach but emphasizes on some important actions in order to build back better of houses. Pre-reconstruction actions include: prepare detailed guidelines, help owners in solving land related problems, ensure efficient coordination between all stakeholders and conduct orientation workshops / training sessions. Reconstruction phase actions include: ensure adequate technical assistance, monitor market prices and ensure a transparent and accessible complaint system. Post reconstruction actions include: Review and assess the overall process as well as call for extra fund for reconstruction of remaining demolished houses.