In Uganda
In a sustainable livelihoods approach, it is imperative that local people and institutions drive the objectives of the work and that they are empowered to implement and continue the work after the end of a project.
The following are just some of the ways local communities and institutions are being strengthened through CSRL to address hunger and poverty in Uganda.
Strengthening Local Communities
CSRL seeks to empower local communities to address hunger and poverty. Our work is currently focused in three subcounties of Kamuli district, Uganda. The communities identify the priorities for their work with CSRL, identify their resources, and participate in the monitoring and evaluation of the work. CSRL implements, primarily through VEDCO, activities tied to the communities' priorities.
Strengthening Local Institutions
The relationship among our collaborators is synergistic. For example, Makerere University students complete projects that benefit the planning and implementation of VEDCO's work with CSRL in Kamuli district. The university students gain project experience and knowledge, and the capacity of both CSRL and VEDCO is increased. VEDCO provides internship opportunities for Makerere students on projects that also include Iowa State University students, with myriad benefits for all collaborators.
CSRL Technical Committee
CSRL is not a "local" institution, but it strengthens its local program through the use of an in-country technical committee. Representatives of Ugandan partner organizations meet regularly with the CSRL Program Coordinator - Dorothy Masinde, who is stationed full-time in Uganda - to discuss and evaluate current and evolving projects. This helps to ensure that CSRL's direction is based on local priorities and that it makes full use of local assets.
