Mr. Ngokwey saw the operations of the activities under the National Programme for Decentralized Planning and Finance (PPFD), the Decentralization and District Capacity Building programme (PROCADIS); Provincial Digital Resource Centre (CPRD); Support Programme for Local Economic Development (PAPDEL); Local Economic Development Agency (ADENA); and the Lumbo Millennium Village. The ultimate objective of these projects is to empower the rural community through enhanced participatory approaches to planning and engagement in the project implementation.

In his discussions with the provincial and district authorities, the Representative and Resident Coordinator emphasized the need for improved rural infrastructure. This is significant as a means to ensure effective service delivery to the rural population. He specifically reiterated the need to ensure that the outcomes from the projects should lead to positive and incremental changes on the wellbeing of the rural communities. The interventions should lead to more household accessing clean waters; more household receiving immediate health care; more children attending schools; more families getting involved in income generating activities, and more food available to the communities.

In Nampula Province, Ribaué district, Mr. Ngokwey visited Primary School, local health centre, constructions in-progress using low cost- conventional materials, and training centre under rehabilitation.

Mr. Ngokwey observed that the project activities in the two provinces have shown positive results that the communities should endeavour to build on. The experience of construction using low cost material is a good innovation. It creates employment, increases family income and promotes the use of local resources. He emphasized the need for determination and commitment to the process of development as this would normally takes time. As a part of learning, the Representative and Resident Coordinator urged the local authorities to promote information sharing and exchange within their provinces and between their provinces and the other provinces. This process of learning will promote cost-effective ways of replicating innovations that work well in one district into the other.

Finally, Mr. Ngokwey pointed out that the emphasis on capacity development at national and local levels remains crucial in ensuring sustained development of activities initiated under the projects.