Kigali, 22nd - 24th July 2024, Rwanda hosted the 9th East Africa Local Government Forum (EALGF) Coordination Strategic Planning Meeting which brought together delates from all member countries and partners to discuss matters of regional integration and cross-border cooperation.
The Minister of Local Government, Patrice Mugenzi, emphasized the critical role of local governments in governance, poverty reduction, and fostering regional collaboration in his opening remarks.
“Through coordinated efforts, Local Governments must be empowered to address issues like youth unemployment and climate change effectively. Regional integration and cooperation are essential for sustainable development, economic growth, regional stability. Rwanda is committed to this through initiatives like cross-border markets infrastructure improvements — all focused on improving the lives of our citizens,” he said.
Through keynotes, presentations, and panel discussions, participants exchanged insights, challenges, proposed solutions, and offered recommendations for strengthening Local Governments' contribution to East African Community integration and overcoming cross-border barriers.
Mr. Dominique Habimana, the Secretary General of the Rwanda Association of Local Government Authorities (RALGA) – the host association, shared with participants RALGA’s milestones and experiences in effective member service delivery.
Building on Rwanda’s experience, He demonstrated how local government associations offer the space and voice to enhance policies and local service delivery.
Hon. James Kabarebe, Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation officiated the closing ceremony.
He highlighted that it is imperative to empower local governments and strengthen decentralization frameworks.
"Strengthening decentralization frameworks, introducing innovative governance mechanisms and improving service delivery at the grassroots level will bring governments closer to the people and ensuring accountability and inclusive development." He said
The forum coincides with Rwanda’s celebration of 25 years of decentralisation whose achievements were presented by the Ministry of Local Government, highlighting key impacts on enhancing citizen participation, improving service delivery, citizen centered governance, and promoting community-led development.
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