How Inclusive Dialogue Shapes Community Development in Kwaya-Kusar LGA
Yusuf Samaila, a 50-year-old visually impaired man from Gusi-Bula Ward in Kwaya-Kusar Local Government Area, Borno state, recently participated in a two-day stakeholders' dialogue workshop organized by Oxfam and its partners. The event was part of a project activity that aimed at improving social cohesion through community development planning in three LGAs in Northeast Nigeria.
Yusuf's personal challenge, including his reliance on his 20-year-old child for manual labour and his vulnerability during the rainy season due to a leaking roof, highlighted the critical need for inclusive development plans that address the specific socio-economic vulnerabilities of persons with disabilities. Discussions at the workshop directly fed into identifying priorities for improved infrastructure and social safety nets for such households within the Kwaya-Kusar LGA.
Yusuf described the workshop as a turning point, emphasizing that the opportunity to travel to Biu LGA and engage directly with community leaders and officials was profoundly impactful. He specifically noted, 'For the first time, I felt included and heard,' indicating a shift from his prior isolation and overthinking.
“For the first time, I felt included and heard”
This personal sense of inclusion directly contributed to the workshop's goal of fostering social cohesion and enhancing community development planning. Yusuf's unique perspective as a visually impaired resident of Gusi-Bula Ward brought to light the specific challenges faced by vulnerable groups in accessing community services and participating in decision-making. His input during the group discussions informed the proposed local development plans discussed with LGA officials, traditional leaders, and political leaders
Before the training, Yusuf was unaware of the role of the Local Government Authority in community development. Now, he is committed to learning and engaging more actively. This commitment will be supported through a planned follow-up program by Oxfam and its partners, which includes regular community meetings and access to simplified information on LGA roles.
This ongoing engagement aims to ensure his voice, and the voices of others from marginalized groups, continue to influence the implementation of community development plans discussed at the workshop.
This project is funded by the German government and co-funded by the European Union
Story by Esther John, Project Officer, Community Development Planning Project
Edited by Maxwell Osasere Osarenkhoe, Communication Officer