Following the successful local government elections in Balochistan in December 2013, CLGF is looking at ways to further strengthen local government capacity in Pakistan by providing technical support and facilitate exchange of good practice.  Dr Munawwar Alam, CLGF Adviser, recently visited the Rural Development Academy in Quetta, and met with the Director General Mohammad Hanif Baloch along with the Academy Director Naimatullah Baber and discussed ways in which various courses are helping councillors and provincial government officials.

Dr Alam said, “Given the financial and capacity constraints, the Academy is making remarkable contributions towards local government capacity building.”  Dr Alam also met with Chief Minister of Balochistan Dr Abdul Malik Baloch and congratulated him on the successful elections last year and discussed ways to help strengthen local government.

CLGF will be hosting a training event on ‘Strengthening advocacy capacity of local government associations in Pakistan’ from 6-9 May in London. The event being held in partnership with the Local Government Association of England and Wales (LGA) and will help develop a strategic plan for enhancing local government activities in Pakistan.