This study sets out to understand and share the successes and challenges of implementing partner strategies for organisational sustainability, through a case study of JOHAP (Joint Oxfam HIV and AIDS Program) in South Africa. The case study reviews literature on organisational sustainability then, through four JOHAP partner organisations, reviews how such sustainability can be achieved in practice. Aspects considered include: human resources; organisational change; reliance on key staff members; management; financial sustainability; reliability; and strategy and planning.

The cast study reviews three key areas to consider when looking at the sustainability of an organisation:

1. the communities or beneficiaries

2. the organisation itself

3. and the relationship between donors and the organisation.

Organisations must have a clear focus and be well managed as they work towards achieving the needs of the communities they serve. As organisations can not generally recover the cost of providing services from the beneficiaries, outside funding needs to be obtained, so a good relationship with donors is key to ensure the sustainability of the organisation.

This document is one of a number of publications highlighting learning during the third phase of the Joint Oxfam HIV and AIDS Program (JOHAP) July 2006–June 2008.