VICTORIA, Seychelles, The Ministry of Local Government and Community Affairs (MLGCA) has organised a comprehensive workshop for district administration teams across Mahé, Praslin and La Digue with a view to enhancing community engagement and addressing national needs more effectively. The event was held on Monday, February 26, 2024. The workshop forms part of the ministry wider effort to strengthen local governance and service delivery at the district level.
The workshop brought together district administrators, office managers and office assistants from all 27 districts. The central theme of the workshop revolved around elevating community-based programmes so that they better align with the aspirations of district residents. Participants were encouraged to think beyond conventional activities such as luncheons and recognition awards and to develop more impactful local initiatives.
Kevin Perine, principal secretary for Local Government and Community Affairs, stressed the importance of moving in that direction. We want our programmes to elevate to the next level which are community-driven, Mr Perine underscored. The Minister for Local Government and Community Affairs, Rose-Marie Hoareau, in her opening remarks, called upon district administrators and their teams to collaborate closely with communities in developing these innovative programmes.
During the practical sessions, participants enthusiastically brainstormed and proposed a range of initiatives aimed at addressing challenges in their respective districts and fostering community development. Suggested programmes included literacy sessions for individuals with limited literacy skills, initiatives targeting drug users, support programmes for vulnerable groups such as orphans, and empowerment programmes for youths such as a fishing club and cultural activities. NGOs and community members are also being encouraged to submit their ideas for citizen-led community programmes.
In the afternoon, sessions focused on finalising the National Addressing System. Francis Lebon, principal secretary for Trade, delivered a presentation on the implementation of the system, with district administrations tasked with mapping roads within their districts for the development of the system. The workshop concluded on a high note, with participants expressing optimism and commitment to implementing the proposed programmes in their districts over the coming months.
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