Equity in Action: Shaping Tomorrow by Strengthening Locally-Led Organizations & Balancing Power

MAMA HOPE recognizes and actively seeks to rectify the systemic underinvestment in Locally-Led Organizations (LLOs), addressing power dynamics that hinder progress towards Sustainable Development Goal 10 - reducing inequalities. However, a challenge associated with the concept of shifting power is the potential creation of a new power gap, with donors facing the losing influence. The truth is that LLOs have always held power that’s not acknowledged. It is the duty of the global development sector to acknowledge the power LLOs hold, by striving to create a balanced system.

Our distinctive approach focuses on creating this balance through systems building and strengthening of LLOs to become more effective and efficient. MAMA HOPE supports these organizations in navigating set criteria by building necessary systems for success, ultimately aiming to render them ineligible for MAMA HOPE's intervention. It levels the playing field, allowing LLOs to meet criteria and gain access to resources. The ultimate goal is to dismantle these criteria barriers for LLOs to access resources. Our existence is contingent on these criteria; if dropped, our role diminishes.

At MAMA HOPE, the concept of 'investing' fosters accountability on both the donor and LLOs. It encourages all parties to engage in giving that focuses on 'Change, NOT Charity,' fostering collaboration with LLOs, working holistically with leaders and communities towards self-reliance and system-level growth.

These investments reduce the dependency on external inputs for projects over time, maximizing and improving the community's inherent resources. Each investment unlocks the potential for life-changing choices by LLOs to break the cycle of dependency. The return on investment is long-term sustainability, breathing life into 'tomorrow' for global change-makers. Investing in LLOs ensures employment creation, education opportunities, innovation, and a conducive living space for communities to grow and thrive.