Context

After Liberia prolong civic war ended in 2003, Civil society organization have been playing relevant role in supporting development processes and have increasingly shown to possess the capacities and expertise to do so. However, despite their experiences and existing capacities, numerous studies show that CSOs in Liberia face capacity constraints that jeopardize their ability to perform their role effectively. For example, CSO networks often have leadership and management weaknesses that are similar to those of their member organizations, but they might also struggle with issues such as constituency-building, adequate member representation and effective communication with their member. In the case of CBOs, it is organizational capacity that is generally weak. Most CBO members are volunteers that must cope with constraints such as illiteracy and unemployment and struggle to ensure the subsistence of their families. CD interventions may therefore need to address the capacity needs of the individual members as well as that of the organization in order to retain the membership, stimulate their participation and ensure that membership fees are paid.

 The intervention

The project developed capacity building plan for each CSO based on assessment. Facilitated training, mentoring and cross-partner learning according to individual plans. Using existing networks and partnerships, facilitate regular county level meetings between CSOs and GoL. Community radio and other media outlets used to disseminate information. Build the capacity of CSOs at the local level to engage in advocacy. Strengthen existing networks and encourage CSOs to establish partnerships. Encourage inter-CSO dialogue on pertinent national issues. Strengthen local county level sectoral CSO meeting.

 Results

• Capacity of non-state actors developed in areas of effectiveness and accountability.
• Stronger civil society able to influence decision-making processes on government policies.
• Increased cooperation between NSA networks, specifically women’s networks, and organizations at local and national level.

 Key facts

Sector:  Media and Civil Society Strengthening  
Domain: Fragile state and Civil Society Development
Benefiting zone: Liberia
Nature:  Performance base contract
Duration: 2011 – 2014
Status: completed