Inclusive Leadership
Tostan’s education program supports communities to build inclusive grassroots democratic structures.
What’s at Stake
Due to limited access to information and education, traditional and formal governance systems in many rural communities inn West Africa do not provide inclusive spaces for women and youth to take part in decisions. Political participation remains low. Women hold only 18 percent of parliamentary seats and even fewer local leadership roles. In these communities low rates of birth registration prevent children from accessing services, voting later in life or taking part in civic processes. Identity card and voter registration rates are also low, especially for women and young adults.
Without inclusive participation and transparent local structures, communities struggle to address shared challenges. Vulnerable groups lose the chance to contribute to solutions and influence decisions that shape their futures.
What We're Doing
Community Empowerment Program (CEP) participants learn about the fundamental elements of democracy, their rights, and the responsibilities associated with defending and respecting those rights. Democratically-selected Community Management Committees (CMC) become a strong leadership presence in Tostan partner communities, contributing to the growth of fair governance and democracy. The CMC works to increase democratic participation by encouraging residents to register to vote, obtain national identity cards, register births, and participate in national elections.
In all CMCs, female members and youth are in the majority. These women and youth emerge as community leaders, activists, and role models, showing young girls and boys alike that women and youth can succeed in leadership roles and work alongside men as equals.
How does Tostan’s education program foster social transformation ?
What Change Looks Like
Community Management Committees (CMC)become practical entry points for women and youth to experience leadership. Many speak in public for the first time, contribute to community planning and guide projects that address local priorities.Women who began as CMC members now hold leadership roles at local and regional levels, and youth groups lead initiatives in education, health and community development.
Nearly 3,000 democratically functioning CMCs have been created in the countries in which we have implemented our program. Many have gained formal civil society status and have joined together to form Regional Federations in Guinea, Mali, Mauritania and Senegal. In Senegal alone, 738 of these community-based organizations are legally constituted and officially registered.
Community Success
110k+
People have learned about democracy and how to make decision-making equitable (2022)
3K
Community Management Committees formed across Tostan’s program countries
30K+
Women elected to leadership positions in their communities, with many running for public office.