Pejewa has experienced difficulties mobilizing to contribute to development. Historically, only the leaders or NGOs have determined who would be involved in the development process. The prevailing sentiment in the community is that their community development pace has been very slow as a result of exclusion and the lack of recognition of the strength of all community members.

The inclusive approach of OVP has changed things in Pejewa. The community’s value of being united is surfacing as everyone is being recognized in public meetings to determine the development process.

To showcase this newfound unity, the women of Pejewa came together and rallied the community to give support to skilled workers as they start the community’s pilot latrine project in the form of rice and other condiments.

Because the project is for the benefit of the entire community, all members have a sense of responsibility to support the project in any way. These contributions illustrate that each and every one in the community feels collective ownership as a result of being engaged in the community development process.

OVP has contributed to this change because we create an equal platform for voices to be heard and participation to be recognized, especially from women. Additionally, by encouraging community members to publicly declare and commit support to the project creates a deepened sense of responsibility and accountability.
OVP will continue to integrate these techniques in to all phases of project implementation so that community members will feel included in and accountable for their own development.