Toolkit: GESI-CSMP

This toolkit and its accompanying practical guide are the result of a collective action-research process focused on achieving impact for target groups and built around two approaches that are central to our work: gender equality and social inclusion (GESI), and conflict-sensitive project management (CSPM).

This work emerged from discussions within the MOPSS project on how to address these issues in the increasingly fragile and volatile contexts of West Africa. Between September 2021 and May 2024, a series of workshops was organised in four countries – Burkina Faso, Benin, Mali and Niger – bringing together project teams with two objectives: to integrate GESI and CSPM approaches more concretely throughout the project cycle, and to share experiences and strengthen collective learning. The process was characterised by its cross-sectoral approach (energy, agri-food and water), cross-thematic focus (climate, governance and GESI), and collaboration across countries.

The toolkit brings together a series of practical resources, including question frameworks, checklists and awareness-raising exercises, which were developed, tested and adapted to support the application of these two cross-cutting approaches in project interventions. Most of the tools relate to activities commonly undertaken in SNV projects, including the selection of partners, clients or impact groups; the establishment and facilitation of multi-stakeholder platforms; infrastructure development; the development of inclusive value chains; and lobbying and advocacy campaigns.

The GESI/CSPM approach is relevant regardless of the level of fragility of the context or where an intervention sits within the Humanitarian-Development-Peace Nexus. It becomes particularly important for projects operating in fragile and conflict-affected contexts, and in settings where social exclusion and gender inequalities are especially pronounced.

Vikki GRIME, Conflict Sensitivity Advisor | Jacqueline TERRILLON, Gender Equality and Social Inclusion Consultant

See the practical guide that accompanies this toolkit.