Community-Led Monitoring Boosts Accountability and Inclusion through DAWAM Project in Herat and Ghor provinces

ActionAid, Afghanistan is enhancing transparency, accountability, and local ownership through the establishment of Community Based Monitoring Committees (CBMCs) as part of key component toward social participation under  DAWAM project in the provinces of Herat and Ghor provinces.

A total of 26 CBMCs—16 in Herat and 10 in Ghor—have been formed to monitor project activities, particularly in remote and hard-to-reach areas. Made up of women, youth, teachers, healthcare professionals, elders, and persons with disabilities, these committees serve as critical links between communities, service providers, and ActionAid's implementation teams.

CBMCs conduct regular monitoring from ActionAid activities in the ground, and they are in interaction with field team and central office staff through WhatsApp groups and in-person follow-ups where connectivity is limited, ensuring inclusive participation across all regions. Their work includes overseeing construction quality, identifying issues sharing with project team, and promoting transparency—all on a voluntary basis.

Abdul Jalil, head of the CBMC in Sagar district of Ghor province, shared the transformation brought about by the initiative:

“Before the CBMC was established, no one felt responsible or willing to cooperate. Now, everyone takes ownership and works to maintain the sustainability of the project. If there’s a shortcoming in the implementation by contractors, we immediately inform the officials.”

The insights and feedback collected from CBMCs are helping ActionAid and its partners adapt strategies, address local challenges, and ensure the effective delivery of services. This participatory model not only improves project outcomes but also fosters a culture of collaboration, learning, and long-term sustainability.

Ziba, a CBMC member from Titan village located in Saghar district of Ghor province, reflected on her experience:

“I joined three months ago our committee has a head, vice head, and six members., since the establishment of our committee, monitoring and implementation have improved. These committees are formed by local people who know the community’s problems and can represent them well. We feel proud and a strong sense of ownership.”

With 114 CBMC members in Herat including 13 women and 71 in Ghor including 11women, the DAWAM project is paving the way for community-driven development. By placing local voices at the center, ActionAid Afghanistan is not just delivering aid, it is empowering communities and building resilient systems of governance and accountability.