Sierra Leone

During the two-day workshop, participants visited a selection of Kambian communities benefiting from the JICA project, to speak directly to community members about the successes and constraints of the projects they implemented. Following the field visits, participants came together in a lively discussion of best practices of their respective projects, and to explore the possibilities of integrating these practices into the operation of both projects.

Speaking at the workshop, UNDP Assistant Resident Representative, Toshihiro Namakura, noted that, “sustainable development is more than simply funding a programme. The concept of this workshop moves away from bringing in donors and consultants to teach communities how to improve their systems and practices.” “For the first time,” he continued, “two districts have come together to learn from each other. By fostering dialogue between districts with relevant contexts we can work together to accelerate the development of Sierra Leone.”

The success of the workshop has prompted the UN and JICA to plan future collaborations for experience-sharing. “The feedback from participants was so positive we plan to expand the concept,” said the UNDP representative; “we intend to invite additional donors and districts into the process to continue to harmonise projects.”