CLGF received a visit yesterday by a group of 11 mayors from across Sri Lanka. Part of a study tour to the UK, the group was coordinated by the FSLGA – the Federation of Sri Lankan Local Government Authorities - one of CLGF’s member associations, led by Chief Executive Officer - Ms Hemanthi Goonasekera.

Localising the SDGs

The visit provided an opportunity for CLGF to explain the aims and strategic vision of the organisation, together with a detailed presentation by Programme Manager Claire Frost about CLGF project work throughout the Commonwealth and, specifically, activities in Sri Lanka. In particular, Ms Frost described the progress made in localising the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and how communities are implementing projects to demonstrate the tangible impact of the SDGs.

Conference for citizen engagement

This was also a chance to promote CLGF’s flagship Commonwealth Local Government Conference 2019, which is taking place in Colombo, Sri Lanka from 6-9 August. Organised in partnership with the Ministry of Local Government and Provincial Councils and the FSLGA, the focus of the conference is on how social and economic change can be effected by a truly citizen focused local government. The challenge exists for councils throughout the Commonwealth to achieve a meaningful dialogue with all community members to determine priorities for inclusive change.

International learning

Ms Goonasekera said: “Sri Lankan local authorities understand the value of sharing best practice and learning from each other and CLGC2019 is a great opportunity to network with a range of local government stakeholders from around the Commonwealth. I hope we will see a significant delegation from Sri Lankan councils at the event.”

CLGF Secretary-General Dr Greg Munro added: “The Commonwealth Local Government Conference is important to CLGF to help determine our future direction; but it is even more significant in eliciting insight from key players and experts about the most pressing issues for local government. Key to these discussions is having an audience that is engaged and motivated. I therefore hope that CLGC2019 attracts a range of lively local government stakeholders.” 

The Federation of Sri Lankan Local Government Authorities is an umbrella organisation for the three independent local government associations and seeks to provide a united and influential voice in the representation of Local Governments’ interests on policies, legislation, plans, development programs and other measures.