In a significant step towards sustainable economic transformation, departmental heads in Kazo district have undergone comprehensive training on Local Economic Development (LED). The training, supported by the Ministry of Local Government, was held on Monday, August 4, 2025, in the district council hall at the Kazo district headquarters.

The session aimed to strengthen the capacity of the Local Economic Development Investment Committee (LEDIC), focusing on the effective implementation of the Parish Development Model (PDM) and strategies for building a strong district economic profile.

Facilitated by Julias Muheirwe, senior development officer for Local Economic Development at the Ministry of Local Government, the training highlighted LED as a multidimensional and collaborative approach to development that integrates sectors such as economics, physical planning, and marketing.
“Local Economic Development offers local governments, the private sector, and community-based organisations the opportunity to collaborate in improving the economic future of their area,” Muheirwe said.

He emphasized that a robust district economic profile is the foundation of a strong economic narrative. “It is through this lens that Kazo district can effectively market itself and attract key development partners,” he added.

Participants explored strategies to harness local potential, attract investment, and foster public-private partnerships to drive inclusive economic growth. According to Muheirwe, the LED framework complements the Parish Development Model by helping districts identify and promote their unique economic strengths.
“The Parish Development Model cannot succeed in isolation. It must be backed by data-driven planning and a shared economic vision this is where LED comes in,” he noted.

The training was applauded as a progressive move by Kazo district leadership, reinforcing the district’s commitment to innovation, investment, and community-led development.

Deputy Chief Administrative Officer Keith Bahemuka and other departmental heads welcomed the initiative, pledging to apply the knowledge gained to develop a comprehensive district economic profile and enhance the implementation of the PDM.

“This training has given us a clearer perspective on how to leverage our local resources for sustainable development. We are now better equipped to engage partners and implement impactful strategies that directly benefit our communities,” said one participating official.

Kazo District LC5 Chairperson, Rev. Samuel Mugisha Katugunda, who also attended the training, commended the spirit of cooperation among departmental heads. He urged them to embrace mindset change to fully deliver on their responsibilities.
“The LED training marks a significant milestone in the district’s journey toward inclusive and locally-driven development,” Katugunda remarked.

Tinyefuza Naboth – Kazo District Communications Officer