Advocates for Community Alternatives

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  • FCAP expansion set to transform 100 communities in West Mamprusi

    FCAP expansion set to transform 100 communities in West Mamprusi

    Advocates for Community Alternatives (ACA), in partnership with SPARK Microgrants, has announced plans to roll out the Facilitated Collective Action Process (FCAP) in the West Mamprusi Municipality of Ghana’s North-East Region beginning September 2026.

    The announcement follows a successful engagement visit by ACA’s team, including the Director of Community-Driven Development, Nana Ama Nketia-Quaidoo, Project Manager Godfred Osei Nimako, Senior Trainer George Nafiu Mpoah, and Monitoring and Evaluation Manager Jonathan Komla Agbenyega.

    The visit aimed to finalize discussions with the West Mamprusi Municipal Assembly on the implementation of FCAP and to explore possible revisions to the FCAP model, including the introduction of new Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) tailored to the needs of beneficiary communities.

    A major highlight of the visit was the signing of a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between ACA and the West Mamprusi Municipal Assembly for the implementation of FCAP projects across 100 communities in the municipality.

    Under the agreement, the Municipal Assembly will contribute counterpart funding of $400 toward each FCAP community project, amounting to a total investment of $40,000. ACA, on the other hand, will provide microgrant support of $8,000 for each community project to drive sustainable community-led development initiatives.

    As part of the engagement, the ACA team visited the communities of Sandan-Fong and Kukua to assess their readiness and commitment toward the implementation of FCAP. The team also held a series of strategic meetings with officials of the West Mamprusi Municipal Assembly.

    Speaking after the visit, ACA’s Director of Community-Driven Development, Nana Ama Nketia-Quaidoo, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to empowering communities through collective action and sustainable development.

    “We are excited to officially partner with the West Mamprusi Municipal Assembly to implement 100 projects in 100 communities through the Facilitated Collective Action Process,” she said.

    She emphasized the importance of community participation in achieving long-term development outcomes.

    “From my experience, the secret to lasting change is not just funding, but collective action. When communities come together with a shared vision, the impact can be transformational,” she added.

    Project Manager Godfred Osei Nimako also described the visit as demanding but rewarding.

    “It was very stressful but extremely successful,” he noted, adding that he was impressed by the enthusiasm and preparedness demonstrated by the communities ahead of the planned FCAP rollout.

    The upcoming implementation is expected to strengthen grassroots development, enhance local participation, and promote sustainable solutions across the West Mamprusi Municipality.

    Francis

    L’extension du PACF sur le point de transformer 100 communautés dans le district de West Mamprusi

    Advocates for Community Alternatives (ACA), en partenariat avec SPARK Microgrants, a annoncé son intention de déployer le Processus d’Action Collective Facilitée (Facilitated Collective Action Process – PACF) dans la municipalité de West Mamprusi, située dans la région Nord-Est du Ghana, à compter de septembre 2026.

    Cette annonce fait suite à une visite de travail réussie de l’équipe d’ACA, comprenant la directrice du développement communautaire, Nana Ama Nketia-Quaidoo, le chef de projet Godfred Osei Nimako, le formateur principal George Nafiu Mpoah et le responsable du suivi et de l’évaluation Jonathan Komla Agbenyega.

    Cette visite visait à finaliser les discussions avec l’Assemblée municipale de West Mamprusi concernant la mise en œuvre du PACF et à explorer d’éventuelles révisions du modèle, notamment l’introduction de nouveaux indicateurs clés de performance (ICP/KPI) adaptés aux besoins des communautés bénéficiaires.

    L’un des temps forts de cette visite a été la signature d’un protocole d’accord historique entre l’ACA et l’Assemblée municipale de West Mamprusi pour le déploiement des projets du PACF dans 100 communautés de la municipalité.

    Aux termes de cet accord, l’Assemblée municipale apportera un cofinancement de 400 $pour chaque projet communautaire du PACF, soit un investissement total de 40 000$. De son côté, l’ACA fournira une subvention (micro-grant) de 8 000 $ pour chaque projet communautaire afin de soutenir des initiatives de développement durable portées par les communautés.

    Dans le cadre de cette mission, l’équipe d’ACA s’est rendue dans les communautés de Sandan-Fong et Kukua afin d’évaluer leur niveau de préparation et leur engagement envers la mise en œuvre du PACF. L’équipe a également tenu une série de réunions stratégiques avec les responsables de l’Assemblée municipale de West Mamprusi.

    S’exprimant à l’issue de la visite, Nana Ama Nketia-Quaidoo, directrice du développement communautaire chez ACA, a réaffirmé l’engagement de l’organisation à autonomiser les communautés grâce à l’action collective et au développement durable.

    « Nous sommes ravis de nous associer officiellement à l’Assemblée municipale de West Mamprusi pour mettre en œuvre 100 projets dans 100 communautés grâce au Processus d’Action Collective Facilitée », a-t-elle déclaré.

    Elle a souligné l’importance de la participation communautaire pour obtenir des résultats de développement pérennes.

    « Selon mon expérience, le secret d’un changement durable ne réside pas seulement dans le financement, mais dans l’action collective. Lorsque les communautés s’unissent autour d’une vision commune, l’impact peut être transformateur », a-t-elle ajouté.

    Le chef de projet, Godfred Osei Nimako, a également décrit cette mission comme exigeante mais gratifiante.

    « C’était très intense, mais extrêmement réussi », a-t-il noté, se disant impressionné par l’enthousiasme et la préparation dont ont fait preuve les communautés à l’approche du déploiement prévu du PACF.

    Cette mise en œuvre à venir devrait renforcer le développement à la base, accroître la participation locale et promouvoir des solutions durables dans toute la municipalité de West Mamprusi.

  • Supreme Court Dismisses Appeal in Koidu Mining Case 

    Supreme Court Dismisses Appeal in Koidu Mining Case 

    The communities of Koidu have secured an important legal victory in their fight for justice.

    On 28 May 2026, the Supreme Court of Sierra Leone dismissed an appeal filed by Octea Limited and other defendants in a long-running case brought by residents affected by diamond mining operations in Kono District. The decision means that an earlier Court of Appeal ruling in favour of the communities remains in place and that the case can now move forward to trial before the High Court in Koidu.

    This is the latest development in a legal battle that began in 2019, when 74 residents filed a lawsuit against Koidu Limited, its parent and related companies, and company officials.

    The residents say that years of mining activities have damaged their land, affected their health, reduced their ability to farm, and harmed their livelihoods. They are seeking justice and compensation for the impacts they say they have suffered.

    A Victory Built on an Earlier Court Decision

    The Supreme Court’s decision follows a major victory for the communities in October 2025. At that time, the Court of Appeal overturned a High Court decision that had dismissed the case. The Court of Appeal ruled that the communities had the right to bring their claims before the courts and that their concerns deserved to be heard. The judges also recognized that people living on customary land should be able to seek justice when their rights are affected, even if they are not the formal owners of the land.

    The Court also ordered that the companies’ assets remain frozen while the case continues. The defendants later appealed that decision to the Supreme Court. The Supreme Court has now dismissed that appeal, allowing the Court of Appeal judgment to stand.

    Why the Communities Went to Court

    Residents of Koidu have raised concerns about the impact of diamond mining operations for many years. Community members say mining waste has covered parts of their farmland, making it difficult to grow crops and support their families. Others say frequent blasting has damaged homes and disrupted daily life.

    Many residents have also reported health problems that they believe are linked to dust, pollution, and mining activities in the area. Some families were relocated, but many have complained that the new housing was inadequate and did not provide the same opportunities to earn a living. For years, affected residents have called for accountability and fair compensation for the losses they say they have suffered.

    What Happens Next?

    With the appeal now dismissed, the case will return to the High Court in Koidu, where the communities will finally have the opportunity to present their claims in full.While the legal process is not yet over, the Supreme Court’s decision is an important step forward.

    For the people of Koidu, it means that after years of delays and legal challenges, their fight for justice continues — and their voices will be heard in court.

    Français

    La Cour suprême rejette l’appel dans l’affaire de la mine de Koidu — Divi

    Les communautés de Koidu ont remporté une victoire juridique importante dans leur combat pour la justice.

    Le 28 mai 2026, la Cour suprême de Sierra Leone a rejeté l’appel déposé par Octea Limited et d’autres défendeurs dans une affaire de longue date intentée par des résidents touchés par des opérations d’extraction de diamants dans le district de Kono. Cette décision signifie qu’un jugement antérieur de la Cour d’appel en faveur des communautés reste en vigueur et que l’affaire peut désormais aller jusqu’au procès devant la Haute Cour de Koidu.

    Il s’agit de la dernière évolution en date dans cette bataille juridique qui a débuté en 2019, lorsque 74 résidents ont porté plainte contre Koidu Limited, sa maison mère, ses sociétés affiliées et ses dirigeants.

    Les résidents affirment que des années d’activités minières ont endommagé leurs terres, affecté leur santé, réduit leurs capacités agricoles et nui à leurs moyens de subsistance. Ils réclament justice et réparation pour les préjudices qu’ils déclarent avoir subis.

    Une victoire fondée sur une décision de justice antérieure

    La décision de la Cour suprême fait suite à une victoire majeure remportée par les communautés en octobre 2025. À cette époque, la Cour d’appel avait annulé une décision de la Haute Cour qui avait classé l’affaire. La Cour d’appel avait tranché que les communautés avaient le droit de porter leurs revendications devant les tribunaux et que leurs préoccupations méritaient d’être entendues. Les juges avaient également reconnu que les personnes vivant sur des terres coutumières devaient pouvoir demander justice lorsque leurs droits sont lésés, même si elles n’en sont pas les propriétaires formels.

    La Cour avait aussi ordonné le maintien du gel des avoirs des entreprises pendant la durée de la procédure. Les défendeurs avaient ensuite fait appel de cette décision devant la Cour suprême. La Cour suprême vient de rejeter cet appel, laissant ainsi subsister le jugement de la Cour d’appel.

    Pourquoi les communautés ont saisit la justice

    Les résidents de Koidu expriment leurs inquiétudes quant à l’impact des opérations d’extraction de diamants depuis de nombreuses années. Des membres de la communauté affirment que les déchets miniers ont recouvert des parties de leurs terres agricoles, rendant difficile la culture des sols et le subsistance de leurs familles. D’autres expliquent que les tir à l’explosif fréquents ont endommagé des habitations et perturbé leur vie quotidienne.

    De nombreux résidents ont également fait état de problèmes de santé qu’ils estiment liés à la poussière, à la pollution et aux activités minières dans la région. Certaines familles ont été réinstallées, mais beaucoup se sont plaintes que les nouveaux logements étaient inadéquats et ne leur offraient pas les mêmes possibilités de gagner leur vie. Depuis des années, les habitants touchés réclament des comptes et des indemnisations équitables pour les pertes qu’ils disent avoir subies.

    Quelle est la prochaine étape ?

    L’appel étant désormais rejeté, l’affaire va retourner devant la Haute Cour de Koidu, où les communautés auront enfin l’occasion de présenter l’intégralité de leurs demandes. Bien que le processus judiciaire ne soit pas encore terminé, la décision de la Cour suprême constitue une avancée cruciale.

    Pour les habitants de Koidu, cela signifie qu’après des années de retards et de recours juridiques, leur combat pour la justice se poursuit — et que leur voix sera entendue devant le tribunal.

  • 143 farmers trained on soil fertility restoration across Osino And Nkoranza

    143 farmers trained on soil fertility restoration across Osino And Nkoranza

    Healthy soils are the foundation of productive agriculture, food security, and sustainable livelihoods. Recognizing the growing concerns among farmers about declining soil fertility and its impact on crop production, ACA recently organized a series of Community Trainings on Soil Fertility Restoration for members of its Citizens Committee Network (CicoNet) in Osino and Nkoranza.

    Held on 28 and 29 May 2026, the trainings brought together a total of 143 farmers – 75 participants in Osino and 68 participants in Nkoranza – to learn practical approaches to improving soil health and restoring soil fertility.

    The trainings were organized in response to requests from farmers who wanted to better understand how to address soil degradation and improve agricultural productivity using affordable and sustainable methods. Through interactive presentations, facilitated discussions, and knowledge assessments, participants explored key topics including soil health, signs of soil degradation, composting, mulching, crop rotation, and good farming practices.

    Farmers actively participated throughout the sessions, sharing experiences from their own farms and discussing challenges related to declining soil fertility. Many participants highlighted the increasing need for practical solutions that can improve yields while protecting the environment and maintaining the long-term productivity of their land.

    Assessments

    Pre- and post-training assessments conducted during both trainings indicated improvements in participants’ understanding of soil fertility restoration practices. The assessments demonstrated that farmers gained valuable knowledge on sustainable soil management techniques that can be applied within their farming systems.

    To support continued learning beyond the training sessions, participants in Osino received a Soil Fertility Restoration Handbook developed by ACA. The handbook serves as a practical guide for farmers seeking to apply the lessons learned on their farms and share knowledge with their families and communities.

    Enthusiasm

    One of the strongest outcomes from the trainings was the enthusiasm shown by farmers to adopt practices such as composting, mulching, and crop rotation. These techniques were particularly well received because they rely largely on locally available materials and can be implemented at relatively low cost.

    Building on this momentum, ACA plans to support participating farmers through practical follow-up activities. Farmers will be organized into smaller learning groups to facilitate hands-on demonstrations, peer learning, and practical application of soil fertility restoration techniques. These activities will help ensure that the knowledge gained during the trainings translates into tangible improvements in soil health and agricultural productivity.

    By strengthening farmers’ knowledge and capacity to manage their soils sustainably, ACA continues to support resilient farming systems, improved food production, and stronger rural livelihoods.

    As farmers in Osino and Nkoranza move from learning to action, they are taking important steps toward healthier soils, better harvests, and more sustainable agricultural futures.

    Français

    143 agriculteurs formés à la restauration de la fertilité des sols à Osino et Nkoranza

    Des sols sains sont le fondement d’une agriculture productive, de la sécurité alimentaire et de moyens de subsistance durables. Consciente des inquiétudes croissantes des agriculteurs face à la baisse de la fertilité des sols et à son impact sur la production agricole, l’ACA a récemment organisé une série de formations communautaires sur la restauration de la fertilité des sols à l’intention des membres de son réseau de comités citoyens (CicoNet) à Osino et Nkoranza.

    Organisées les 28 et 29 mai 2026, ces formations ont rassemblé un total de 143 agriculteurs — 75 participants à Osino et 68 participants à Nkoranza — afin de leur enseigner des méthodes pratiques pour améliorer la santé des sols et restaurer leur fertilité.

    Ces sessions ont été mises en place pour répondre aux demandes des agriculteurs qui souhaitaient mieux comprendre comment lutter contre la dégradation des sols et améliorer la productivité agricole grâce à des méthodes abordables et durables. À travers des présentations interactives, des discussions guidées et des évaluations de connaissances, les participants ont abordé des sujets clés tels que la santé des sols, les signes de dégradation, le compostage, le paillage, la rotation des cultures et les bonnes pratiques agricoles.

    Les agriculteurs ont participé activement tout au long des sessions, partageant les expériences de leurs propres exploitations et échangeant sur les défis liés à la baisse de la fertilité des sols. De nombreux participants ont souligné le besoin croissant de solutions pratiques capables d’améliorer les rendements tout en protégeant l’environnement et en préservant la productivité à long terme de leurs terres.

    Évaluations

    Les évaluations menées avant et après la formation lors des deux sessions ont montré une nette amélioration de la compréhension des participants concernant les pratiques de restauration de la fertilité des sols. Ces évaluations ont démontré que les agriculteurs ont acquis des connaissances précieuses sur les techniques de gestion durable des sols, applicables au sein de leurs propres exploitations.

    Afin d’encourager un apprentissage continu au-delà de ces sessions, les participants d’Osino ont reçu un Guide de restauration de la fertilité des sols développé par l’ACA. Ce manuel sert de guide pratique pour les agriculteurs désireux d’appliquer les leçons apprises sur leurs terres et de partager ces connaissances avec leur famille et leur communauté.

    Enthousiasme

    L’un des résultats les plus marquants de ces formations a été l’enthousiasme manifesté par les agriculteurs à l’idée d’adopter des pratiques telles que le compostage, le paillage et la rotation des cultures. Ces techniques ont été particulièrement bien accueillies car elles reposent principalement sur des matériaux disponibles localement et peuvent être mises en œuvre à un coût relativement bas.

    Sur la lancée de cette dynamique, l’ACA prévoit d’accompagner les agriculteurs participants à travers des activités de suivi pratiques. Les agriculteurs seront regroupés en petits ateliers d’apprentissage afin de faciliter les démonstrations sur le terrain, l’apprentissage entre pairs et l’application concrète des techniques de restauration de la fertilité des sols. Ces activités permettront de s’assurer que les connaissances acquises lors des formations se traduisent par des améliorations tangibles de la santé des sols et de la productivité agricole.

    En renforçant les connaissances et les capacités des agriculteurs à gérer leurs sols de manière durable, l’ACA continue de soutenir des systèmes agricoles résilients, une meilleure production alimentaire et des moyens de subsistance ruraux plus solides.

    Alors que les agriculteurs d’Osino et de Nkoranza passent de la théorie à la pratique, ils franchissent des étapes importantes vers des sols plus sains, de meilleures récoltes et un avenir agricole plus durable.

  • Delta State University Students Learn How Science Can Drive Community Action and Social Change

    Delta State University Students Learn How Science Can Drive Community Action and Social Change

    From identifying local environmental challenges to developing practical solutions for their communities, 48 students at Delta State University, Abraka spent two days exploring how science can become a powerful tool for community action and positive change.

    On 25–26 May 2026, Advocate for Community Alternatives (ACA), in partnership with the Department of Geology, Delta State University, organized a two-day training programme titled “Community Science: Introduction and Foundations – Youth and Emerging Leaders Training Program.” The training brought together undergraduate and postgraduate students from Geology, Environmental Science, Biochemistry, Agricultural Extension, and Pharmacy to explore the growing field of community science.

    Community science places communities at the center of research and problem-solving. Rather than viewing local people as passive recipients of information, community science recognizes them as partners in generating knowledge, identifying solutions, and driving change.

    Throughout the training, participants were introduced to the foundations of community science, scientific inquiry, ethical research practices, data collection and analysis, stakeholder engagement, leadership, and community-based participatory research. The programme emphasized practical application, encouraging participants to connect scientific thinking with challenges they encounter in their own communities.

    Community problem mapping

    One of the most engaging activities involved community problem mapping, where participants identified environmental and social issues affecting their communities. These included waste management challenges, flooding, water quality concerns, environmental degradation, public health issues, and youth-related social challenges.

    Participants then worked through a series of exercises that helped them move from identifying problems to developing research questions, mapping stakeholders, exploring potential solutions, and designing action plans. By the end of the programme, participants had not only identified issues but had also outlined practical steps they could take to address them.

    The training also highlighted the critical role of young people in promoting evidence-based decision-making and community development. Through leadership reflection sessions and group discussions, participants explored how they can contribute to positive change as researchers, advocates, innovators, and community leaders.

    According to the end-of-training evaluation, participants responded overwhelmingly positively to the programme. All participants rated the training as Good, Very Good, or Excellent across all evaluation criteria, with no Fair or Poor ratings recorded. The quality of facilitation received the highest rating, while overall satisfaction and achievement of learning objectives also received exceptionally strong feedback.

    Beyond the technical skills acquired, the programme fostered interdisciplinary collaboration among students from different academic backgrounds. The diversity of perspectives enriched discussions and demonstrated the value of bringing together multiple disciplines to address complex community challenges.

    The training forms part of ACA’s broader commitment to strengthening community participation in research, environmental governance, and evidence-based advocacy. By equipping young people with practical skills and encouraging community-centered approaches to problem-solving, ACA seeks to support a new generation of community scientists capable of driving sustainable and inclusive development.

    As the programme concluded, participants expressed strong interest in advanced training opportunities, mentorship, and future community science initiatives. Their enthusiasm and commitment suggest that this is only the beginning of a growing movement to connect science, communities, and action.

    Through partnerships such as this one with Delta State University, ACA continues to invest in the next generation of leaders who will use knowledge, evidence, and collaboration to address the challenges facing their communities and create lasting positive change.

    “Community science is not just about collecting data—it is about empowering communities to understand their realities, make informed decisions, and take action.

  • Atiwa West District Assembly delivers Ghc315,000 worth of materials to support FCAP Community Projects

    Atiwa West District Assembly delivers Ghc315,000 worth of materials to support FCAP Community Projects

    The Atiwa West District Assembly has reaffirmed its commitment to improving community infrastructure by providing building materials valued at GH¢315,000 to support projects being implemented under the Facilitated Collective Action Process (FCAP) across eleven communities. This contribution significantly exceeds the Assembly’s initial commitment of GH¢120,000.

    With this milestone, Atiwa West has become the first partner district of ACA to make such a substantial contribution, demonstrating its strong commitment to the initiative despite initial implementation challenges.

    The presentation took place on 4th June 2026 at the District Assembly premises in Kwabeng in Ghana’s Eastern Region.

    The support forms part of the Assembly’s partnership with Advocates for Community Alternatives (ACA), a non-governmental organisation that works closely with local authorities and communities to advance sustainable, community-driven development. The contribution represents the Assembly’s commitment to finance 20 percent of the cost of each community project implemented under the partnership.

    The materials will accelerate the completion of critical infrastructure projects that address pressing needs in education, healthcare, housing, and water access.

    The beneficiary communities received a variety of construction materials, including cement, roofing sheets, floor and wall tiles, door panels, sanitary ware, and other essential supplies. These materials will support the construction and completion of nurses’ quarters, teachers’ accommodation, classroom blocks, kindergarten facilities, and mechanized boreholes.

    Among the beneficiaries were Larbikrom, Sankubenase, Akwaduuso, Gyamase, Yohunu, Pameng, Akropong, Ekorso Akwadum, Asunafo, Banso, and Mouso. While the majority of the materials were distributed during the ceremony, the remaining items – including plywood, paints, and additional door panels – are expected to be delivered soon.

    Speaking during the presentation, the District Chief Executive, Mr. Johnson Anom Amo, emphasized that the investment reflects its commitment to partnering with communities and development organizations to improve access to quality public infrastructure and essential services.

    ACA’s Project Manager, Godfred Osei Nimako, commended the Atiwa West District Assembly for honouring its commitment and demonstrating the value of collaborative partnerships in advancing local development.

    He noted that the support from the Assembly will help ensure that the projects are completed and ultimately improve the quality of life for residents across the beneficiary communities.

    The milestone highlights the importance of strong partnerships between local government, civil society, and communities in delivering lasting development outcomes and creating resilient, thriving communities across the Atiwa West District.

  • Community Science in Action: Turning Training into Impact.

    Through the Community Science Training Programme, participants are transforming how environmental knowledge is produced and used in communities.

    Implemented by Advocates for Community Alternatives, the programme trained students, researchers, and community members in practical skills for environmental monitoring, soil and water sampling, and participatory research.

    An evaluation of 20 participants shows strong impact:

    • 80% are already applying their skills in real-world settings
    • Communities are actively involved in environmental data collection
    • Participants report improved research quality and environmental awareness
    • 100% support continuation of the programme

    What started as a training initiative is now driving real environmental action, stronger community participation, and more inclusive science.

    Read the full story below.

    FROM TRAINING TO TRANSFORMATION

    How Community Science is Strengthening Environmental Action and Local Knowledge

    Across communities and institutions, a quiet transformation is taking place. Through the Community Science Training Programme implemented by Advocates for Community Alternatives, participants are no longer just observers of environmental challenges—they are becoming active contributors to solutions.

    The programme was designed to strengthen the capacity of students, researchers, and community members to work together in generating reliable environmental data and improving local decision-making.

    But beyond technical skills, it has sparked a deeper shift: how science is understood, practiced, and shared.

    Building Practical Skills for Real-World Impact

    A total of 20 participants were engaged in the training and evaluation process, representing students, researchers, facilitators, and community science practitioners.

    Participants were trained in:

    • Soil and water sampling techniques
    • Environmental monitoring tools and field methods
    • Participatory research approaches
    • Community engagement strategies
    • Data collection and interpretation in real environments

    The training emphasized hands-on learning in real field conditions, ensuring that knowledge was immediately applicable.

    From Training to Action

    One of the strongest outcomes is the rapid application of skills.

    The evaluation shows that 80% of participants are actively using what they learned.

    They are now:

    • Conducting environmental field assessments
    • Supporting community-based monitoring
    • Involving local people in data collection
    • Applying community-generated data in academic research

    This demonstrates that community science extends beyond training—it becomes practice.

    Communities at the Centre of Science

    A key shift is the increased involvement of communities in scientific processes.

    Participants reported:

    • Stronger collaboration with community members
    • Inclusion of local and indigenous knowledge
    • Joint interpretation of environmental data
    • Improved communication between researchers and communities

    This has strengthened trust and made science more locally relevant.

    Environmental and Behavioural Change

    The programme has also influenced attitudes and practices.

    Participants observed:

    • Increased awareness of pollution and environmental risks
    • Improved land and water management practices
    • Reduced harmful environmental behaviours
    • Stronger commitment to sustainability

    These changes show that community science is influencing both knowledge and action.

    Strong Support for Continuation

    The response from participants was overwhelmingly positive:

    • 90% would recommend the programme
    • 100% support its continuation

    Participants highlighted the importance of:

    • Practical field-based learning
    • Real-life examples
    • Community engagement
    • Hands-on experience

    Lessons and Future Direction

    Key lessons include:

    • Practical training strengthens learning and retention
    • Community participation improves trust and data quality
    • Local knowledge is essential for meaningful science
    • Follow-up support is needed to sustain impact

    Looking ahead, the programme aims to:

    • Expand to more communities
    • Strengthen mentorship systems
    • Improve access to field tools
    • Deepen community participation in science

    A Shift in How Science is Done

    What began as a training programme is becoming a broader movement toward shared knowledge production.

    Through this work, Advocates for Community Alternatives is helping to reshape science into something more inclusive, participatory, and grounded in community experience.

  • Expanding Impact: FCAP Heads to West Mamprusi

    Expanding Impact: FCAP Heads to West Mamprusi

    We’re excited about the steady progress in expanding our community-driven development model, FCAP, to the West Mamprusi Municipality in Ghana’s North-East Region.

    Earlier this week, a seven-member delegation from West Mamprusi visited Abuakwa South Municipality to gain firsthand insight into how FCAP works. This follows a prior engagement where ACA, Spark Microgrants, and Water and Sanitation for Urban Populations visited West Mamprusi.

    Led by ACA’s Project Manager Godfred Osei Nimako, Senior Trainer Francis Manu, and Community Trainer Joseph Obeng, the team toured Kyebi Akwadum, Owuratwum, Addo Nkwanta, and Ahinkwa Sisi. They engaged with community members, observed ongoing projects, and met with officials of the Abuakwa South Municipal Assembly.

    The momentum is clear – FCAP is set to extend its life-changing impact to many more communities nationwide.

    West Mamprusi Delegation:
    * Sebiyam Ali – Senior Technician Engineer
    * Elijah Adam – Assistant Development Planning Officer
    * Mustapha Umar – Assistant Director I/ Head, Central Administration Unit
    * Suale Sulemana – Head, Physical Planning Department
    * Alhaji Wahab Ibrahim – Head, Social Welfare & Community Development
    * Beni – Physical Planning Officer
    * Abdul Nafiwu Mahama – Assistant Development Planning Officer

  • Strengthening “Oman Yie Die”: CDD Sharpens Strategy for Nationwide Expansion

    Strengthening “Oman Yie Die”: CDD Sharpens Strategy for Nationwide Expansion

    ACA’s Community-Driven Development (CDD) Department continues to build its capacity to effectively implement its flagship Facilitated Collective Action Process (FCAP), widely known in Ghana as “Oman Yie Die.”

    At its team session in Osino in the Eastern Region, the team reviewed and refined the FCAP model to enhance its impact and future implementation.

    Project Manager Godfred Osei Nimako opened the session with a forward-looking update, announcing the expansion of FCAP to 200 additional communities, 100 in northern Ghana and 100 in the south.

    In the Eastern Region, Abuakwa South, Fanteakwa North, and Suhum Municipal have been selected for the next phase, alongside six communities in Nkoranza South.

    Senior Trainer Francis Manu led a practical session on the key steps in rolling out FCAP, while ACA Legal Officer Bridget Kartey provided guidance on land acquisition and its legal framework.

  • Celebrating Excellence & Impact in Our Communities!

    Celebrating Excellence & Impact in Our Communities!

    At today’s graduation ceremony of 22 communities held at Owuratwum near Kyebi in Abuakwa South, a truly inspiring moment unfolded.

    Five communities—Boateh, Owuratwum, Ntabea, Adukrom, and Atwemamena—came together to honor one of our exceptional Senior Trainers, George Nafiu Mpoah, with a special award. This recognition celebrates his unwavering dedication and commitment to the successful implementation of the Oman Yie Die projects across these communities.

    Your passion and hard work continue to transform lives and uplift communities.

    Congratulations, George, for making ACA proud!

  • 22 Communities Graduate as ACA Transforms Lives with Sustainable Projects in Eastern Region

    22 Communities Graduate as ACA Transforms Lives with Sustainable Projects in Eastern Region

    Advocates for Community Alternatives (ACA), an Accra-based NGO, has held a colorful graduation ceremony at Owuratwum near Kyebi in the Abuakwa South Municipality, marking the completion of the Facilitated Collective Action Process (FCAP), locally known as Oman yie die, in 22 communities.

    In partnership with the Abuakwa South, Atiwa West, and Fanteakwa South district assemblies, ACA has delivered a range of sustainable projects over recent years. These include school blocks, teachers’ quarters, a CHPS compound, a doctor’s bungalow, mechanized boreholes, electrification project, a soap-making center, and a poultry farm – significantly improving local living conditions.

    A key highlight of the event was the inauguration of a newly constructed three-unit kindergarten block at Owuratwum under the program.

    Speaking at the ceremony, ACA’s Project Manager, Godfred Osei Nimako, traced the organization’s work in the Eastern Region to 2020, following earlier efforts in Nkoranza South in the Bono East Region.

    “After successful pilot projects in Sagyemase, Nsuapemso, and Juaso, ACA expanded in 2023 to reach more communities across the three districts. So far, ACA’s interventions have benefited 34 of 56 communities in Abuakwa South, 28 of 32 in Fanteakwa South, 20 in Atiwa West, and 24 in Nkoranza South”, he stated.

    Mr. Nimako urged beneficiary communities to maintain the projects and continue mobilizing local resources for further development.

    He emphasized that the Oman yie die initiative aims to revive communal cooperation and self-help traditions.

    He also announced plans to extend the program to 200 additional communities nationwide over the next two years.

    Local leaders, including the Assembly Member of Odumasi Electoral Area, Collins Akonnor and Ankobeahene of Owuratwum, Nana Oturoku Danquah III , expressed gratitude to ACA and community members for the achievements.