Wajibu Wako Haki Yetu

Funded by

ForumCiv SASA Program

From: 2023-09-13

To: 2024-06-18

Wajibu Wako, Haki Yetu is a community-driven initiative led by ZAFAYCO that aimed to promote good governance and strengthen mutual accountability between young people and local government authorities in Zanzibar. The project was implemented in four key districts: North A and Central (Unguja) and Chake Chake and Micheweni (Pemba).

The core approach of the project was to facilitate structured district-level dialogues that brought together youth, district leaders, and civil society actors to engage in open discussions around governance, participation, and development. These dialogues created safe and inclusive spaces for young people to voice their concerns, contribute ideas, and collaborate with local authorities on matters affecting their communities.

Over the course of the 18-month period, the initiative engaged over 130 individuals directly through dialogues, and reached more than 800 young people through subsequent youth council engagements. A major achievement was the restoration of trust in youth councils, which many young people had previously viewed as politically biased. The project enabled these councils to be seen as platforms for real engagement, accountability, and access to opportunities.

Furthermore, more than 500 youth accessed opportunities to participate in district-level development projects and community meetings. These engagements not only expanded their civic participation but also provided them with relevant exposure and support. In addition, over 900 youth benefited from sub-activities initiated by young leaders, including educational support and mentoring programs.

One of the lasting impacts of the project was the strengthening of relationships between youth and district authorities, which helped district youth officers build youth databases to better track, support, and engage with youth-led groups in their areas.