LCED subscribes to Accountability to Affected Population (AAP) principles whereby the community should play a major role in all the interventions that benefit them. In fact, LCED refers to its target population as project participants rather than beneficiaries!

This RRF project in Nagero was no exception. Challenges like poor network coverage, insecurity, lack of social amenities did not deter LCED from extending a hand to those that were in need. In a period of less than one month, LCED staff conducted a rapid site assessment to identify areas where the most vulnerable returnees were concentrated. Through community meetings and with the support of local authorities and community volunteers, 868 most vulnerable returnee households were identified, registered and supported with emergency shelter assistance that included 2 plastic sheets, 2 bundles of ropes, framing poles and nails and with the support of a hired shelter expert, supported or guided on proper shelter construction. ‘As a humanitarian worker, my gratification is seeing people smile after my intervention’ shares Jame Alex (LCED, Program Assistant).

‘Two key lessons learned; never underestimate and assume that the community is very vulnerable with nothing to offer and secondly, the complaint and feedback mechanism is a key tool in identifying and addressing gaps unforeseen by the project staff yet could have serious impact on the project’ Jame shares. Lastly, Jame re-echoes other humanitarian partners to come to the rescue of the many returnees who are still homeless and at a greater risk with the anticipated rainy season soon.  He also recommends partners to consider WASH and Non-Food Items (NFI) for the conflict affected people in Nagero County as most pressing needs since majority were either routed or lost their belongings during the massive displacement.