Testimonial
My volunteering with CECI: an experience full of achievements and lessons learnt !
Since my arrival in Guinea, where the project is being implemented in the Kounounkan areas (Moussayah and Allasoyah, Forécariah Prefecture) and Madina-Oula in the Kindia Prefecture, I have had the pleasure of participating in numerous missions as part of my assignment. Each mission has been as interesting and enlightening as the next. These experiences have reinforced my belief that positive change is possible through a participatory and inclusive approach, starting from the project's design phase. This ensures that community needs are addressed, the chosen solutions are appropriate and culturally relevant, and the results achieved by the project are more sustainable.
My volunteer assignment has given me the opportunity to better understand the concept of nature-based solutions, particularly the critical role forests play as a source of income-generating activities for these communities (wood cutting, slash-and-burn farming, non-timber forest products, etc.), as well as their importance for climate and biodiversity. A village elder from one of the target communities rightly pointed out that the forest is the only source of income for his community, which faces a high unemployment rate. Therefore, to combat excessive logging and wildfires, it is essential to develop alternative income-generating activities for his community.
My volunteer assignment has also strengthened my adaptability. Guinea is a developing country facing numerous challenges, including weak infrastructure (such as road networks and internet connectivity) and political instability. Despite these hurdles, the country team spares no effort in working towards the project's objectives while prioritizing everyone's safety. I am grateful to have contributed to the CECI-Guinea team, both in daily operations and during field missions. Their professionalism and humanity combine to create a wonderful working environment!
Finally, the field missions further underscored the importance of engaging community elders and influential voices to facilitate the dissemination of information and encourage greater participation and buy-in from the population. The practice of joking kinship also proved to be an effective way to break the ice and create a relaxed atmosphere. During these missions, I was particularly moved by the availability of local community members (authorities, women, men, and youth), their hospitality, openness, courtesy, and patience. They are engaged and willing to dedicate their time and share their experiences to ensure the project's success. I felt a deep sense of respect, politeness, and mutual consideration throughout.
If you wish to play an active role in the fight against exclusion and poverty and make a positive impact on the lives of vulnerable communities, please consider donating to CECI by clicking on the following link:
Your contribution will go directly to the communities in need
Thank you for your generosity!
To learn more about CECI-Guinea, click on the following link:
https://ceci.org/en/countries/...
