Train4dev (2011) Harmonisation, Decentralisation, Local Governance: Ghana Urban Management Pilot Programme (VNG/AFD)

The Urban Management Pilot Programme is an AFD-sponsored initiative implemented by VNG. Its aim is to support urban infrastructure development programmes and strengthen institutional capacity in four Ghanaian cities, using the municipal contracting modality.

 The presentation also draws from other case studies and draws lessons on MCs as an effective and instrument to improve the performance of local governments: it increases their financial capacity, increases investments in municipal infrastructure and services and local resource mobilization.MCs can also provide a common platform for other donors to invest.Success factors for an MC process include:

• Understanding of the concept of MC among beneficiaries and donors
• Proper and timely sequencing of the various MC stages
• Audits and project materials (manuals, training)
• Clear rules of the game (incl. the MC)
• Technical support during implementation
• Reality checks!
• Monitoring of the MC
• Capacity building of local governments for achieving sustainable results (urban planning, municipal financial management / local resource mobilization, organizational management)

 You can access the full agenda of the training: http://capacity4dev.ec.europa.eu/event/training-course-harmonisation-decentralization-local-governance

For an overview of lessons learned from municipal contracting experiences in Senegal, Guinee, Mali, Niger and Ghana, see: Mirco Goudriaan/VNG International (2010) Effective aid through Municipal Contracts: A challenging perspective on strengthening decentralization and local governments for investing in service delivery and economic development.