Connect

Before we implement any project in any community or ecosystem, we first seek to connect with the communities and ecosystems we work with at a deeper level so we can understand why things are the way they are, and what would work best to make a positive change.

We ask several questions whose answers help us to design and deliver transformative impact through our initiatives, understand: • the cause of things and context: Why are things the way they are? How did they start and how have they evolved? How have they impacted the community? Who are the key actors, including the unconventional, unacknowledged actors? • potential solutions and their impacts: How can the situation be transformed? What is needed to bring about the required transformations? What are the potential barriers to this transformation? What are the potential positive and negative impacts of the solutions in the short, medium and long terms?
What can be done to minimise the negative impacts and maximise the positive outcomes of interventions?
We use a similar approach to evaluate the impact of our initiatives to help us make the necessary adjustments to improve positive outcomes and reduce any negative outcomes.

Connection lies at the heart of everything we do at Maendeleo. We strive to connect individuals, communities, and organisations to create a network of support and collaboration towards more effective and inclusive solutions for Africa. Some of the challenges the continent experiences, for example, armed conflicts, are because of disconnections and gaps in knowledge, perspectives and ideologies, and can thus be addressed by building bridges to bridge these gaps and connect diverse voices amicably. For instance, by fostering dialogue and building relationships, we can bridge the gap between disparate groups, foster understanding and unity, and promote cohesion and peaceful coexistence. This in turn can create conducive conditions for socioeconomic development and for individuals and communities to thrive. In some other cases, this involves building or rehabilitating actual, physical bridge infrastructures to connect communities, thus facilitating social, economic and political exchanges between them. 

We recognise that real change happens when diverse stakeholders come together, pooling resources and expertise. We seek connections to build these strategic partnerships and alliances and harness the collective power of governments, NGOs, businesses, and local communities to tackle complex challenges collaboratively. As an advocate for policy changes that promote inclusivity, equality, and sustainable development, connection sometimes involves efforts to facilitate critical dialogues between communities and policymakers and other development partners.