This report seeks to contribute to a better understanding of the gap that exists between elected leaders and civil society, specifically women and youth in the Sahel-Saharan region and identifies ways to better harness the current youth dividend and women’s contributions in local, national, and regional peacebuilding and development efforts. Through examining the initiatives undertaken by women and youth groups with support from the government and international partners to overcome political participation challenges, the findings determine that more efforts are needed to ensure sustainable participation for youth and women that also promotes peace, security, and development across the Sahel.