Kɔntri Os Kenema Local Enterprise Platform
- Kenema, Sierra Leone
- 2026
- DWA FOUNDATION
ADVANCE established a Kɔntri Os local enterprise platform in Kenema, coordinating business guidance, skills referrals and community-led programme priorities through a shared delivery framework.
The challenge
Local entrepreneurs and young people encountered business advice, training and community initiatives through disconnected providers. Referral information became outdated, eligibility rules were not always clear and participants repeatedly explained their circumstances to different organisations. Local priorities also risked being overshadowed by externally designed activities. The mandate required a place-based coordination model that improved access while respecting participant choice, data privacy and the distinct responsibilities of delivery partners.
Our approach
ADVANCE convened local enterprises, community representatives and service providers to define the platform's purpose and participation rules. Kɔntri Os combined scheduled guidance sessions, a maintained service directory and consent-based referrals with regular local planning reviews. The team documented partner responsibilities, feedback channels and safeguarding escalation. Programme records tracked service activity without creating unrestricted personal profiles, and delivery priorities were revised through consultation rather than fixed solely by central planning.
The result
Kenema gained a coordinated access point for enterprise guidance and development opportunities, with clearer information about available services and referral conditions. Partners retained responsibility for their own provision while contributing to a shared local delivery framework. Community feedback informed programme priorities and exposed gaps requiring further partnership work. Kɔntri Os operated as a place-based initiative, distinct from Dream West Africa OS and its internal enterprise management responsibilities.
Outcomes
- Coordinated local enterprise support
- Consent-based partner referral pathways
- Community-informed programme governance