Priority Voting in Nyandehun Junction: A Step Towards Sustainable Transformation
On August 20, 2024, in the heart of Nyandehun Junction, Sierra Leone, community members gathered under the town barry, eager to make decisions that would shape their future. As part of our community-led approach, we believe that lasting change happens when communities lead the way in their development needs.
That’s why we facilitate Priority Voting, a participatory process where communities rank their most urgent needs and create an action plan with the guidance of One Village Partners' facilitators. Using the Pairwise Ranking Tool, they debated, discussed, and ultimately decided, step-by-step on the issues that mattered most to them. This method is core to our Communication Action Program, and it empowers everyone to have a voice.
In a community where traditional power structures often limit some voices, the pairwise ranking tool is especially impactful ensures that everyone, young and old, men and women, has a say.
This process is a key part of One Village Partners’ strategy to strengthen communities from within. By prioritizing participatory decision-making, we’re fostering local leadership, promoting gender equality, and ensuring that marginalized voices are front and centre in the conversation.
Priorities to Action: A Step-by-Step Path to Progress
Through open discussion and thoughtful ranking, the community identified five key priorities:
Access to Clean Water – The community’s top concern was the urgent need for a water well, ensuring access to safe drinking water.
Sanitation Improvements – The second priority was the construction of latrines, recognizing the importance of hygiene and public health.
Education for the Future – Investing in education ranked third, reflecting a deep commitment to creating better opportunities for children.
Agricultural Development – Strengthening food security and economic resilience through improved farming practices became the fourth priority.
Restoring the Town Barrie – The final priority focused on enhancing the community Barry, a vital space for meetings and social gatherings.
This process wasn’t just about selecting projects; it was about ensuring that each initiative was truly community-led. By the end of the session, community members had a clear roadmap for their next steps, with shared goals that reflect their collective vision for their community.
Why Priority Voting Matters
At its core, Priority Voting is about empowerment. It shifts decision-making into the hands of the people who are most affected, reinforcing community ownership and accountability. This approach is a cornerstone of One Village Partners’ work, ensuring that development isn’t imposed but rather driven by those who know their needs best.
Nyandehun Junction’s journey is a testament to what happens when communities lead the way. Change starts with a conversation, grows with collaboration, and takes root when people take ownership.
one priority at a time.
Join us in supporting communities like Nyandehun Junction as they take the lead in shaping their future.
Learn more about our approach and how you can be part of the change.