Civil society organizations get Rwf518M grant to boost governance

The chief executive Officer for Rwanda Governance Board-RGB Prof. Anastase Shyaka and the UNDP country Director Auke Lootsma preparing the cheques

In a bid to strengthening the capacity of the civil society Organizations in responsive and accountable governance, Rwanda Governance Board (RGB) has received Rwf518 million ($740000) grants, a move that is expected to spur national development.

The grant is awarded by the government of Rwanda and the one United Nations under the joint program strengthening civil society organization for responsive and accountable governance in Rwanda.

The  program that  runs up to  2018  boasts of a total funding  of $8,619,120 that aims at    strengthening the capacities of national civil society organizations enabling them  to hold  the public  and private  sectors  to account  as well as advocate  for the rights of all.

Chief executive Officer Rwanda Governance Board-(RGB) Prof. Anastase Shyaka and UNDP country Director Auke Lootsma awarding cheques

Moreover, it will also enhance realization of human rights, gender equality and social justice as well as enhances thecivil society Organization in socialeconomic development.

“Giving out grants today translates into reality Rwanda’scommitment to support the CSOs in strengthening their capacity to deliver and foster civic participation,” said Prof. Anastase Shyaka, Chief executive Officer of Rwanda Governance Board-RGB during the signing of   grant agreements.

The grants agreements conclude the formal relation between Rwanda Governance Board, UNDP and the CSOs and provide legal clarity, predictability, accountability as well as equality amongst all grantees.

This according to Shyaka will improve the livelihoods of the people by engaging in productive economic activities.

Launched in April this year, through a highly competitive, transparent and independent evaluation process, the top 18 proposals were selected for funding.

The Civil  society  according  to  experts plays  an important  role  in acting as a watch dogs for the  interests of the  people  as well as building a democratic society.

“It is our firm belief that civil society plays an important role to deepening governance and social-economic development at all levels in Rwanda,” said Auke Lootsma, UNDP country Director for Rwanda

He adds, “We are excited to see the foster results today and are committed to continue this journey the coming year.”

Accordingly, efforts will be deployed to improve the efficiency of registration procedures for local civil society organizations and enhance their participation in activities promoting accountable governance and efficiency meeting social needs of the people through joint Action development forum.