‘Trust-building is Peacebuilding’ – Establishing Public-Private Models in Conflict Areas

Challenge

Following the 2010 post-electoral crisis, the communes of Abobo and Yopougon in Greater Abidjan remained deeply fractured. There was a profound lack of ‘vertical trust’ between residents and the local administration, as well as ‘horizontal trust’ amongst residents of different ethnic and political backgrounds. The perceived unfairness in public service delivery exacerbated tensions, creating a risk that minor disputes could escalate into renewed violence.

OC Global implemented a dual approach to foster social cohesion. To rebuild horizontal trust, we facilitated the creation of ‘Joint Management Committees or Comités Conjoints de Gestion (CCGs)’ comprising representatives from opposing groups to manage infrastructure projects collaboratively. To restore vertical trust, we introduced ‘Evidence-Based Planning’. This involved establishing comprehensive infrastructure and social databases, enabling commune officials to select projects based on scientific data and needs rather than political favouritism, thereby enhancing transparency and accountability.

• Proven Social Stability: In the project target areas, no violent incidents occurred during the tense 2020 presidential election, whereas violence erupted in surrounding neighbourhoods. The CCGs successfully acted as buffers against conflict.
• Evidence-Based Governance: The communes adopted the infrastructure and social databases for their 3-year development plans, ensuring fair distribution of public services.
• Institutionalisation of Cohesion: The ‘COSAY Methodology’ was codified into municipal ordinances, securing the budget and legal framework for resident-government collaboration.