The Power of Knowing: Why Community Profiling is the Foundation of Successful Social Facilitation

Every project that touches people’s lives—whether a pipeline, mine, or housing development—must begin with understanding those people. Community profiling is where that understanding starts.

What is Community Profiling?

Community profiling is the process of gathering and analysing social, economic, and cultural information about a community. It’s more than demographics—it’s about insight. Profiling reveals how communities are structured, who holds influence, what people value, and where opportunities or tensions lie.

At Kumalo & Co, we see profiling as the foundation of social facilitation and, more broadly, social performance. Without it, engagement risks being reactive, and social investment misaligned with real community needs.

Community Profiling in Action: The South Coast Pipeline Phase 2B

The South Coast Pipeline Phase 2B Project, implemented by uMngeni-uThukela Water with social facilitation by MPS Strategic Solutions, is a strong example of profiling done right.

The profiling covered Wards 8, 10, and 11 of Umdoni Municipality—mapping households, businesses, and local leadership structures. Six local fieldworkers were trained and deployed, ensuring cultural sensitivity and data accuracy.

This early groundwork paid off:

• Over 35% local employment was achieved.

• No major land disputes occurred.

• Trust was built between traditional authorities, councillors, and communities.

  
  

Profiling gave the project team the insight to anticipate social risks, design inclusive engagement strategies, and strengthen relationships that carried the project through to completion.

Why Profiling Matters for Social Facilitation

1. It guides meaningful engagement – Knowing who to talk to and how ensures every voice is heard.

2. It builds trust and legitimacy – Understanding people’s realities shows respect.

3. It supports participation and ownership – Data on local skills and enterprises helps communities benefit directly.

4. It prevents conflict – Early insights into social dynamics allow for proactive mediation.

5. It strengthens long-term impact – Profiling informs legacy projects and sustainability planning.

   
   

From Data to Dignity

Community profiling is not just a technical step; it’s an act of respect. It humanises infrastructure and connects engineering excellence to social wellbeing.

The South Coast Pipeline Phase 2B proved that when we understand communities deeply, we create not just functional projects—but trusted, lasting partnerships.

At Kumalo & Co, our guiding principle remains:

Before we engage, we must understand. Before we build, we must listen.

Written by Nombasa Kumalo

Managing Director, Kumalo & Co.