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Community members and leaders discuss strategies to enhance engagement in provincial governance.
A recent workshop in Taro focused on enhancing citizen participation in local development planning at the ward level, drawing attention to the critical need for community voices in shaping development initiatives. The event gathered around 30 participants, including members of Ward Development Committees (WDCs) and representatives from various community organizations, such as youth and women’s groups, to discuss strategies for improving local governance.
“This workshop is an essential step in making sure the voices of our communities are listened to and included in the province’s development plans. As a remote province, we don´t often feel included so we really thank UNDP for considering bringing this training session to our province. Strengthening citizen participation at the ward level lays indeed the foundation for more inclusive and efficient local and provincial development”, said Cynthia Baripapa, Provincial Planning Coordinator for the Choiseul Provincial Government.
During the hands-on session, participants engaged in group activities that allowed them to share experiences from previous planning processes and identify best practices for ensuring that development priorities align with the needs of local communities. By fostering an inclusive environment, the workshop aimed to empower citizens to take an active role in decision-making, laying the groundwork for more responsive and effective provincial governance.
Mozammel Haque, Project Manager of the Provincial Governments and Service Delivery (PGSD) project, emphasized the importance of community engagement. “The success of local development efforts hinges on the active participation of all community members. Hopefully this is a turning point, and they really start engaging in shaping their future while the national and provincial governments instill this culture of more inclusive development”, he said.
This workshop is part of a broader effort to promote transparency and social accountability in local governance and improve service delivery in remote areas.
It was organized by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) as part of the European Union-funded Provincial Governments and Service Delivery project, in partnership with the Provincial Government of Choiseul Province.
Source: UNDP
