BY CHIKA OKEKE, Abuja
At least, over 500 persons including men, women and youths received various categories of empowerment as the SDGs Community Waka Initiative, a M.O.R.E Through Sustainable Development Goals (NA YOUR HAND E DEY) concluded its pilot phase in Delta State.
The major focus of the initiative was to enable the beneficiaries understand their priorities, challenges and aspirations related to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
It was targeted at engaging rural dwellers in the process of sustainable development planning and action, just as the project was implemented in eight riverine communities across the two Local Government Areas of the state.
News Rider reports that the riverine communities of Ijaghala, Kantu, Ureju, Ogheye-Eghoroke, Obonteghareda, Bateren, Bobbi-Olobe and Orere benefitted from focus group discussions, community walks and participatory assessments.
The initiative was also aimed at assessing the existing SDG projects and initiatives, state of education, identify the actual needs of the people, and generate data-driven recommendations for accelerated actions by the government.
It was implemented by the Non-governmental Organisation (NGO) in collaboration with the Office of the Special Assistant, SDGs Delta State; Royal Iwere Foundation, and Federal University of Petroleum Resources Centre for Sustainable Development.
During the project, the team also conducted physical walks within the communities to observe and document the socio-economic and environmental aspects of life.
Aside localising the SDGs, the project was successfully implemented in rural and underserved communities.
Already, findings from the assessments have been used to develop data-driven recommendations for government actions.
In his address, the Governor of Delta State, Sheriff Oborevwori reaffirmed that his M.O.R.E Agenda would open up more opportunities for Deltans through localising the SDGs.
He noted that localising the SDGs is crucial in achieving sustained development in the state, adding that his administration is committed to the development of both riverine and upland communities.
The Director-General of Directorate of Sustainable Development Goals, Chief Daniel Ivwrighen stated that community engagement is the bedrock of sustaining government efforts in achieving sustainable development.
He informed that participatory approach guaranteed the full participation of locals, thereby empowering them to take ownership of the development.
The Special Assistant, SDGs and project lead, Lady Diana Eyo-Enoette was excited over the successful completion of the pilot phase.
She disclosed that the participatory approach adopted during the project provided valuable insights into community dynamics and actual needs of the people.
"We are confident that our findings will contribute to the development of effective and sustainable solutions that resonate with the aspirations and priorities of communities in Delta State, "Eyo-Enoette added.
The recommendations were based on empirical evidence and community input, while ensuring that the governments intervention were effective and aligned with the needs and priorities of the communities.
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