COMMUNITY SELF-MANAGEMENT AND ITS IMPACT ON LOCAL DEVELOPMENT IN THE SANCÁN COMMUNE, JIPIJAPA

Abstract

DOI: https://doi.org/10.46296/yc.v10i18.0803

Abstract

The study was conducted in the Sancán Commune, located in the province of Manabí, Ecuador, to analyze how community self-management impacts local economic development and citizen participation in the territories. The problem centered on the radical identification of the scarce state investment in rural communities, which forces residents to develop self-management strategies to sustain productive activities such as agriculture, commerce, and community tourism. To address this situation, a mixed methodology with a descriptive, analytical, and correlational design was applied. 307 community surveys were conducted, along with an interview with the commune president. The research showed that in the Sancán Commune, community self-management is limited, with few formal mechanisms and limited coordination with external institutions. Residents show a low level of awareness of the concept of self-management and limited participation in community activities, reflecting a lack of information and motivation. Although progress has been made, such as the installation of drinking water and multi-use sports fields, the majority of the population perceives a slow development in recent years. It is concluded that self-management is still in its infancy, but constitutes an essential pillar for strengthening social organization. Its consolidation will depend on increased training, active citizen participation, and institutional support that promotes sustainable local development.

Keywords: Activities, training, evidence, participation.