By Brian Wasili
Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in Mwanza District have been challenged to design and implement development projects that transform livelihoods by investing in interventions that empower communities both economically and socially.
Mwanza District Commissioner (DC), January Watchman Mvula, made the call on Tuesday during an interactive meeting with Mwanza District CSO Network.
The meeting was aimed at familiarising the CSOs with the council’s development priorities under the new DC.
“As Mwanza District Council, we want to see CSOs implementing projects that bring lasting change to people’s lives,” said Mvula.
The DC highlighted the need for CSOs to support the Council in promoting mindset change among residents, particularly in areas of waste management and compliance with the urban infrastructure development plan.
He noted that negative attitudes and lack of adherence to planned development remain a major setback to Mwanza’s aspiration of becoming a modern town hence the need for strong mindset change interventions so that planned development guidelines or proper waste management practices are followed.
Chairperson for Mwanza District CSO Network, Martin Kadaona, commended the DC for openly sharing his vision for the district, demonstrating the council’s willingness to work hand in hand with non-state actors in advancing development.
“We are encouraged by the DC’s openness and his commitment to inclusive development. This gives us confidence as CSOs to align our interventions with the district’s priorities,” said Kadaona.
Under representation of CSOs in the District Executive Committee and its sub-committees, delays in the signing of Memoranda of Understanding by some government sectors and office politics in some government departments at the council were raised as some concerns affecting operations, service delivery and implementation of programmes meant to benefit communities.
