Bright start for Zugdidi Local Action Group

On the 28^th April 2021, a launch event was held in Zugdidi TechPark for the Zugdidi Local Action Group (LAG) under the project “Improving local governance through inclusive development approaches”, implemented by Action Against Hunger and funded by the Austrian Development Agency (ADA) with funds from Austrian Development Cooperation (ADC).

The project aims to support the increased inclusion of women, youth and the most vulnerable in local development decision-making processes and socio-economic support through the introduction of the Community-led Local Development (CLLD) approach to rural development.

The project will support the foundation of a LAG in Zugdidi and at the event more than 70 interested persons from communities throughout Zugdidi Municipality were in attendance. Speakers on the day included the Regional Director of Action Against Hunger South Caucasus Mission, Ms Marcella Maxfield; the Deputy Mayor of Zugdidi Municipality, Mr. Konstantine Kakava; the Executive Director of the Georgian Association of Local Action Groups (GALAG), Ms. Nino Tikurishvili, the Tskaltubo Local Action Group Manager, Teona Qobuladze; and Action Against Hunger Project Officer, Nino Logua. Presentations were followed by an open-floor Q&A session for event participants.

The LAG is the main decision-making body of the CLLD approach, and is composed of representatives of public, private, and civil society. It is also responsible for creating a Local Development Strategy (LDS) and assessing and selecting social and commercial grant applications.

“We are very happy with the results so far as interest in engagement was quite high and people expressed a readiness to be engaged in the process of planning and the creation of a Local Development Strategy.”, said Nino Logua.

During the project timeframe LAG members will have the opportunity to gain new learning experiences through workshops, study tours and events to broaden their knowledge on the CLLD approach, as well as on women’s economic engagement and leadership, youth inclusion and environmental protection.

“We encourage more women, youth, and people with disabilities to participate in decision-making processes and socio-economic support. We think that the project will be successful, and it can bring positive changes to Zugdidi Municipality.” said Marcella Maxfield.