Rural transformation in Liberia: Strategies for civil society participation

Abstract

Rural transformation involves a dynamic structural, cultural and economic transition of rural areas to a more economically viable society. This encourages the reduction of inequality, eradication of poverty and enhancement of the living conditions of rural dwellers. Rural areas from the agricultural perspective sustain the urban demand for food and despite this role, lacks basic infrastructural facilities, has a high level of illiteracy, poverty, low self-esteem, poor developmental initiatives and government incentives to spur their poor production to a more viable one. Perceptibly, civil society participation through initiatives and actions to attract amenities such as health care, educational and clean water infrastructures will enhance health care delivery, educational attainment and living standards of rural dwellers. And the mobilization rural dwellers for collective developmental action is an essential component of rural transformation. Also, leadership/advocacy training will enable rural leaders engage constructively with government and development partners to attract the needed developmental incentives aimed at transforming the rural society, help checkmate rural-urban migration and encourage production.