What is meant by the term “community-driven development”?

Community-driven development refers to initiatives and projects that are managed and implemented by the community members themselves, rather than being directed or primarily controlled by external entities such as governments or international agencies. This approach emphasizes local participation, ownership, and decision-making, allowing community members to identify their own needs, priorities, and solutions. By empowering communities, it fosters a sense of responsibility and enables projects to be more relevant and sustainable, aligning closely with the local context and culture.

In community-driven development, the role of outside organizations, if present, often shifts to providing support, resources, or capacity building rather than dictating the course of action. This empowerment can lead to greater effectiveness in addressing local challenges and building community resilience.