WACSOF Journey Final

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With support from the Support Programme for Advocacy Networks (SPAN), Bushenyi District Civil Society Forum has just completed a historic journey. this journey was not a simple one. It was tiresome and at times a frustrating one. the excitement derived from the creation of the new districts and the prevailing political currents challenged the notion of continuing to work as one entity. the Network used the challenge (or is it opportunity) to reflect, consult and lay new strategies. A new entity, Western Ankole Civil Society Forum (WACSOF) was born.

This experience has revealed the need to approach challenges innovatively and courageously. WACSOF has set a good example to other District Networks that seek to influence development and governance processes beyond a single administrative unit. We look to the future with optimism and hope to continuously learn from such initiatives to ensure that citizens’ voices continue to be heard.

This report is a synthesis of a series of processes the Forum went through in the search for a new identity as it moved to reposition itself in the new (political and administrative) operating environment. the lessons learned along the way are a valuable resource for other Advocacy Networks.

I salute the Civil Society fraternity in Western Ankole for taking such a bold step and choosing to remain united. In so doing they have consolidated their voice and will be more effective in holding their leaders accountable.

Let us continue working together for development.