Beyond Tokenism: Quantifying the Participation-Sustainability Nexus in Rural Community Development Projects in Sierra Leone

Abstract

Despite decades of investment in Community-Driven Development (CDD) to facilitate post-conflict recovery, the longevity of rural projects in Sierra Leone remains a significant challenge. This study investigates the empirical link between multidimensional community participation and project sustainability in Nongowa Chiefdom, Kenema District. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach (N=200), the research evaluates how different rungs of participation—ranging from consultation to resource contribution—affect long-term viability. The results indicate a "participation paradox": while symbolic engagement (consultation) is high (M=4.11), functional engagement (resource contribution) is significantly lower (M=3.71). Crucially, cross-tabulation analysis reveals that 81.4% of respondents reporting high participation levels perceived high project sustainability, compared to only 1.2% in the low-participation cohort. The study concludes that moving beyond tokenistic involvement toward active co-investment is a mechanical necessity for ensuring that development benefits endure beyond external funding cycles.