ActionAid Sierra Leone holds its annual community-driven Participatory Review and Reflection Process (PRRP)

The PRRP provided AASL with the opportunity to engage directly with its program participants across various communities, in all Local Rights Program (LRP). This exercise enabled both AASL staff, partners and community members to reflect on the past year’s interventions, assess their impact, and develop community action plans for the upcoming year. The feedback gathered from this process plays a critical role in informing AASL’s plans for 2025, ensuring that programs remain relevant to the context and needs of the people.

“Our goal with the PRRP is to ensure that we are continuously learning and improving based on the feedback we receive from those we serve,” said Mohamed Fofana, Head of Programs and Policy AASL. “This is not just a review process—it’s an open dialogue with our communities to ensure their voices are heard and reflected in our planning.”

Community stakeholders expressed their appreciation for the participatory nature of the engagement. “It’s empowering to know that our feedback informs the organization’s plans. We feel like true partners in the development process,” said Agnes Bangay, Councilor of Mogbogesei community in Timdale Chiefdom.

Following the community engagement phase, a district-level stakeholder and community interface meeting was held to present prevailing issues and action plan, then dialogue on how various groups—government, civil society, and the communities, can work together to address the challenges raised. The dialogue brought together local government officials, community leaders, and other key district stakeholders.

Key issues raised during the community engagement, such as access to clean water, the effects of climate change, the deplorable state of healthcare facilities, and education, were presented and discussed. “Development is a shared responsibility. We need to unite our efforts and ensure we address these challenges faced by our people,” said the Deputy Director of Education in Moyamba District, Kai Wuseni.

Community members echoed the need for stronger collaboration between district authorities and their people. “We’re not just asking for support; we want to be part of the solution. This dialogue shows that we’re all in this together,” remarked Sheku Koroma, teacher from Mosanda community.

The insights gathered from the PRRP is instrumental in informing AASL’s upcoming plans and budgets, ensuring that future interventions are effective, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of the people.

“With the continued collaboration of district authorities, community leaders, and other stakeholders, we believe we can create long-lasting, positive change in the communities we work alongside.” said Gibril Kargbo, Business and Partnership Development Specialist.