In this exclusive Q & A, Jhanet Sebunya, a passionate scholar and advocate for community-driven development. With extensive experience across Africa, Asia, and America, and a research focus on technology-driven public participation, shares her motivations, insights on international development, and hopes for the future.
What motivated you to pursue a career in development?
Sebunya:
Being born and raised in Uganda, I am no stranger to poverty. Growing up, I witnessed firsthand the struggles of marginalized communities, which sparked a desire in me to be part of the fight against global poverty. The global development agenda often calls on individuals to make small but meaningful contributions toward reducing inequality. This resonates deeply with me.
For me, the motivation lies in advocating for a platform where all segments of society, especially those often left behind, can participate in and benefit from development initiatives. I believe that public participation in governance and development is essential in ensuring that these initiatives are inclusive and equitable. My personal experiences, coupled with a strong commitment to social justice, have fueled my career in development.
Can you tell us about your research in the US and its impact on community development initiatives via public participation?
Sebunya:
My research in the US focuses on exploring how leadership engages communities in development planning and decision-making processes. One of the key aspects I look at is the role of public participation in enhancing the effectiveness, legitimacy, and sustainability of development initiatives. The American Institute of Certified Planners emphasizes that planners have a responsibility to serve the public interest, which includes ensuring that people have meaningful input in the development of plans and programs that affect them.
My research delves into understanding how this model of participatory governance can be applied to developing countries like Uganda. I study how communities can be empowered to have a more active role in shaping policies and projects that directly impact their lives. By examining these participatory approaches, I aim to find strategies that promote transparent, inclusive platforms for citizen engagement, particularly by leveraging technology.
The key challenge I face is identifying the right mechanisms to empower citizens and ensure their voices are not just heard but acted upon. This work is critical because effective participation can lead to more sustainable community development and greater accountability.
How does citizen participation in development in the US differ from Uganda or other developing countries?
Sebunya:
There are several significant differences between citizen participation in the US and in countries like Uganda, largely due to variations in political systems, economic development, and technological advancement.
In the US, the political system supports citizen engagement through established democratic processes. Citizens have the opportunity to vote, attend town hall meetings, and provide input on policies through public comment periods. There are also well-established institutions, such as civic organizations and NGOs, which facilitate public engagement in development planning.
In contrast, in Uganda and many other developing countries, political participation is often restricted by authoritarian regimes, corruption, or lack of political freedoms. Citizens face numerous barriers to engaging in decision-making processes, whether it’s due to limited access to education, economic constraints, or lack of awareness about their rights. Technology in the US also provides numerous platforms for citizens to participate in development processes, something that is still in its early stages in many parts of Uganda.
Moreover, the culture of civic engagement is stronger in the US. There’s a long-standing tradition of volunteerism and giving back to society, where even retirees contribute their time to community development. In Uganda, while there is a collective spirit, participation is often driven by community leaders rather than individual initiatives. I would love to see Uganda adopt more of these approaches, where everyone, regardless of status, feels empowered to contribute to development.
What are the biggest challenges facing international development today, and how can professionals contribute to solving them?
Sebunya:
International development is fraught with several challenges, from inequality and poverty to political instability and environmental concerns. One of the biggest issues is ensuring that development initiatives are inclusive and sustainable. Too often, development programs are top-down, where decisions are made by a few, leaving out the very communities they are supposed to benefit.
Professionals in this field can contribute to solving these challenges by adopting collaborative approaches. This means working directly with local communities, governments, and organizations to ensure that development initiatives are contextually relevant. Capacity building is another crucial area – by empowering local organizations and individuals, we can promote self-sufficiency and ensure that these communities have the tools to sustain their own development.
Advocacy for policy change is also important. We need to influence policies at local, national, and international levels to support equitable development. Development professionals must leverage their expertise and platforms to push for change that benefits the most marginalized groups.
What suggestions would you give for improving public participation in development?
Sebunya:
One of the key areas for improvement is creating more inclusive platforms that allow citizens from all walks of life to participate in decision-making processes. In many developing countries, marginalized groups, including women, youth, and people in rural areas, are often left out of these conversations.
Another critical suggestion is the integration of technology. In the US, digital platforms have transformed how citizens engage with development initiatives. Social media, online forums, and mobile applications have made it easier for people to have a voice. These technologies could be adapted in developing countries like Uganda to bridge the gap between citizens and policymakers.
Finally, promoting a culture of civic engagement is essential. This could start in schools, where young people are taught the importance of contributing to their communities. By instilling this mindset early on, we can create a generation of active citizens who are passionate about their role in development.
Any closing remarks on what you’ve observed in your dual exposure to development contexts in the US and Uganda?
Sebunya:
One thing that stands out to me is the deliberate effort in developed countries, such as the US and across Europe, to bridge the gap between the rich and the poor. The culture of giving back to society is deeply ingrained, and volunteerism is encouraged from a very young age. Even retirees find ways to contribute to development initiatives, which I find incredibly inspiring.
I wish my country, Uganda, could adopt more of these practices. If we can create a culture where everyone feels responsible for the welfare of their community, regardless of their social or economic status, we could make significant strides in addressing inequality and fostering inclusive development.
Jhanet Sebunya’s passion and dedication to inclusive development continue to drive her work. Her insights into public participation offer a fresh perspective on how we can build stronger, more participatory communities around the world
