Country ownership means that both people and their governments are at the helm of their development. Equity should be a guiding principle in building a partnership, as should (for many partnerships) a “bottom-up” structure. Political will and human and financial resources are also needed. One essential step in building a partnership is to ensure that everyone involved knows what the partnership is about, who is doing what, and which outcomes are expected. If possible, a partnership should be built on appropriate structures already existing in the area. Establishing and implementing a partnership is basically a dynamic process. The procedure includes several phases: preparation, drawing up a contract (where thought necessary), establishing a work programmed, implementing the work program, and monitoring and evaluation on an ongoing basis to be efficient, a partnership should have recognizable and autonomous structure to help establish its identity. The structure should have stability and permanence as well as flexibility, and it is helpful if it has a certain degree of autonomy, i.e., freedom from political influence in Somalia. It is also important to review lines of communication to ensure that all partners are kept informed and involved. Partnerships need to develop a long-term strategy if they are to work effectively and have a lasting effect. For area-based partnerships, this strategy must include a vision for the region focusing on the outcome to be achieved, an action plan identifying shorter-term priorities, and a coordinated working program including activities and measures that will contribute to the achievement of long-term outcomes. Also necessary are a shared commitment to implement the program and arrangements for monitoring and reporting progress. Some relevant characteristics are as follows:
- The partnership enjoys political and social acceptance.
- The partners show determination and accept the practicalities of their political responsibilities.
- There is a strong sense of ownership.
- Agreements are based on identifiable responsibilities, joint rights, and obligations, and are signed by all relevant partners.
- The partnership takes an inclusive approach (relevant Somali are involved in planning and
implementation). - Strong commitment from each of the partners is reflected in the fact that all partner organizations are
equally present and, where possible, represented by experienced persons who have influence within
their organization.