1. Support the spread of “good practice” in generating, managing, analysing and communicating spatial information Power and Empowerment Prerequisite to Participation By: Samuel Musyoki Unit: M04U03

2. Presentation outline Introduction Understanding power –expressions of power –what is empowerment? –the conflicts and risks of empowerment

3. Introduction We need to appreciate power as an important factor in participatory processes. We need to reflect on our own power and how to create opportunities for empowerment and participation by different groups.

4. Understanding power Mostly understood negatively –control and oppression Power from a positive point of view –a force that enables/facilitates processes that have positive outcomes in the lives of people

5. Understanding power Essential part of community participatory processes The most sensitive and difficult topic to address in any participatory process Essential for genuine participation Creates opportunities for addressing underlying causes of injustices

6. Expressions of power Power over: –repression, force, coercion, discrimination, corruption and abuse

7. Expression of power Power with: –builds on collective strength, mutual support, solidarity and collaboration to multiply individual talents and knowledge

8. Expressions of power Power to: –refers to the unique capabilities and potential of every person to shape his or her life and world Power within: –individuals’ and communities’ sense of self- worth and dignity

9. What is empowerment? Empowerment is a strategy and a goal of participatory processes. Participatory mapping should aim to strengthen and build people’s abilities to make choices and take actions on their own with self-confidence and to change the status quo.

10. The conflicts and risks of empowerment Empowerment involves individual discovery and the commitment to pursue change; this leads to questioning our identities, roles, vision for change and the world around us. Fear, discomfort and anger among those involved and the larger community could easily occur as a result of this questioning. Some people could easily withdraw, even if the process holds promises for long-term change. There could be calls for developing new leadership to spearhead change.

11. The conflicts and risks of empowerment As a political change process, it involves the powerless challenging the powerful: it can put those involved in danger. Include those from the dominant class and ensure their buy-in so they do not feel threatened; ensure that they do not hijack the process and exclude the weaker groups. Ensure that all the groups reflect on their power/powerlessness: exercising power rightly can contribute to a just society and realising rights for all.