Most Significant Change Story: Kondibu’s Leadership Transformation
Kondibu is a small village in the Eastern Region of Sierra Leone that has long been governed by traditional leadership practices that have not effectively served its purpose. With a population of over 675 people, their leadership was limited to a few clans composed of elderly people. These elders were the ultimate decision-makers, leaving very little or no room for youth or the wider community to voice their opinions, which affected the community.
Mariama Ansu Women's (Youth Leader), Kondibu
The idea of shared leadership was far-fetched, as people from non-ruling families were less considered. The elders in charge were reported to not effectively represent the community in external meetings, limiting their participation in broader societal matters. Youth were forced by leaders to do communal work and were fined or even arrested if they failed to do it. They were also denied the rights to acquire land for farming. Bockarie Corbor, a Village Leader, recalled, “I did not feel good when our decision and action harmed the youth, but I had limited power to change it, as I was also part of the cohort.”
Before One Village Partners (OVP) established a partnership with the community in 2022, it was observed that the leadership was fragmented and ineffective, posing development challenges to the communities. Learning from this, the organization introduced the inclusive leadership model, which marked a turning point for the community. In community meetings, OVP staff members emphasized the essence of youth involvement in leadership and decision-making.
These messages resonated with one of the community members, Sao Brima’s vision, underscoring the benefits of youth’s participation in community development and decision-making. Sao therefore began advocating for shared leadership and encouraged both leaders and community members to see youth as assets and partners in development. “I gained valuable knowledge from Sao Brima, who attended OVP meetings and trainings, and in turn shared key learning with us. This knowledge shaped our perceptions and positively influenced our leadership dynamics,” Bockarie explained.
Chief Bockarie Moiwo Corbor, Kondibu
Encouraged by the deep reflection and learnings gained from the One Village Partners, Bockarie and other community members formed a new leadership, characterized by inclusivity and collective action, led by Vandi B. Morie, a reputable elder chosen as chairman. However, this transition was not easy. Sao initially struggled to convince the elders who tightly held on traditional leadership model and did not see shared leadership as a way to go, fearing that they would lose influence and control over the youth. “At first, many leaders were hesitant in embracing this new model. They saw us as a threat,” Bockarie shared.
OVP’s frequent education, awareness raising during meetings, and intensive leadership training helped Sao to gain a breakthrough. “To our surprise, this turned out positively. We have seen positive transformations that have benefited the entire community.” Bockarie revealed happily. Youth are now actively involved in community development, decision-making, and initiating innovative ideas. To build on this, they have established Kondibu Youth Development Club (KYDC), constituting 50 members, which is officially recognized by the elders. The group has begun implementing development projects such as road maintenance and the provision of school materials to children. They have also purchased seven motorbikes to ease transport fare, which has raised an annual savings of Nle6,000 ($255.332).
This serves as one of the most significant transformations, shifting from heredity to merit-based leadership. Positions are no longer reserved for only clan members but are open to everyone based on the ability to deliver. Forced labor and unfair fines have been abolished, replaced with deep collaboration amongst the community members. “We now feel happier than before because we are now close to the elderly, promoting inter-generational dialogue and teamwork for the development of our community,” said Vandi B. Morie, the leader, KYDC.
Kadiatu Brima, Kondibu
Vandi B. Morie (Youth Chairman), Kondibu
Today, youth play an active role in resolving conflicts and no longer of unfair treatment. They are now seen engaged in open dialogue and enjoy mutual respect. “Young people aged 18 and above now have equal access to land for farming and infrastructural developments. This never used to happen. We have observed how inclusive leadership has transformed our community. I have realized the value of inclusivity, as it promotes the initiation of fresh ideas, energy, and a strong cohesion that drives development,” Bockarie reaffirmed. Inspired by this progress, Bockarie now calls himself an Inclusive Leadership Ambassador.
The community looks forward to building on the gains to promote development, reinforcing solidarity amongst one another. “To our donor partners, I encourage you to continue supporting OVP to expand its reach to more communities. OVP’s intervention unveiled those significant benefits we are now enjoying today,” Bockarie concludes, smiling with pride, following the transformation of his village.