Local councils across The Gambia met last week to find better ways to raise money for community projects. The Gambia Association of Local Government Authorities brought council members together for a two-day workshop at a Kotu hotel. They talked about new ways to fund local development programs that serve their communities. GALGA President Mahamadou Ceesay said local governments struggle with funding their work.
The EU-UNDP GREAT Initiative backed the workshop, with additional support from the Commonwealth Local Government Forum through European Union funds. Participants discussed problems like small budgets and the need for more trained staff. James Monibah from the GREAT Initiative called better local fundraising both a money issue and a step toward good governance. He said these plans will help councils manage development with more freedom and openness.
The group focused on finding different funding sources, such as grants, business partnerships, and community projects. Consultant Ousman Sonko urged councils to think creatively about working with businesses. The group also planned ways for councils to team up with other groups and charities. The workshop stressed that when local people help plan projects, they feel more connected and often give more support.
The EU-UNDP GREAT Initiative backed the workshop, with additional support from the Commonwealth Local Government Forum through European Union funds. Participants discussed problems like small budgets and the need for more trained staff. James Monibah from the GREAT Initiative called better local fundraising both a money issue and a step toward good governance. He said these plans will help councils manage development with more freedom and openness.
The group focused on finding different funding sources, such as grants, business partnerships, and community projects. Consultant Ousman Sonko urged councils to think creatively about working with businesses. The group also planned ways for councils to team up with other groups and charities. The workshop stressed that when local people help plan projects, they feel more connected and often give more support.
