From Ifeoma Ejiofor
Justice, Development and Peace Caritas (JDPC) Nnewi, supported by the Catholic Caritas Foundation of Nigeria [CCFN] recently held consultation forum to strategized on actualizing the purpose of CAPs project
The consultations provided an opportunity for grassroots stakeholders to reflect on JDPC Nnewi’s past interventions, identify institutional strengths and gaps, and contribute to shaping the organization’s strategic direction for the next five years.
The CAPs Regional Consultation and Capacity Building Workshop for the Nnewi Region was held at Diocesan Hall Nnewi Catholic Diocese, Nnewi.
In his welcome address, the Director JDPC Nnewi, Rev Fr Ben Chima Okolo said that the participation of the persons in attendance reflects the shared vision towards strengthening community structures, promoting accountability, and enhancing sustainable development within the communities.
Rev Fr Okolo said that the CAPS Project presents an important opportunity to collectively reflect, learn, and build stronger capacities that will enable various institutions and communities to respond more effectively to their challenges.
“Through dialogue, shared experiences, and collaborative engagement, we hope this meeting will deepen our understanding and strengthen the partnerships needed to achieve the goals of this project.I warmly welcome you all and wish us a fruitful and productive engagement.” He said.
Rev Fr Okolo said as a matter of fact that JDPC Nnewi implements programs that prioritize vulnerable groups while strengthening community systems.
Mr. Onyekachi Ololo.during the commutative forum briefly introduced the CAPS Project and its significance.
He said that the CAPS Project is supported by the Catholic Caritas Foundation of Nigeria, CCFN under its Small Grants program for the Justice Development and Peace Caritas/Commissions as part of its efforts to celebrate Caritas Nigeria’s 15th anniversary.
The purpose according to Mr Ololo is to empower Justice, Development, and Peace Commissions (JDPCs) by strengthening their organizational systems and structures, helping them to advance advocacy, influence policy better, and carry out development and humanitarian interventions efficiently in their respective dioceses.
The participatory workshop was conducted and led by Ebenebe Onyekachukwu Ernest, PhD, who guided the overall strategic planning process, facilitated SWOT analysis amongst others.
The CAPs consultation meetings provided an important platform for grassroots stakeholders to contribute meaningfully to the future direction of JDPC Nnewi.