The Local Administrative Entities Development Agency (LODA), successfully conducted a three-day capacity-building training on the implementation of the Basket Funding for Pro-Poor Development (PPD-Basket) in Rwanda. The training brought together key district officials from 16 rural districts to enhance their technical and operational capacity in delivering impactful development projects.

The Basket Funding for Pro-Poor Development (PPD-Basket) is a multi-donor initiative designed to strengthen Rwanda’s pro-poor and gender-sensitive local economic development agenda. Implemented by the Ministry of Local Government (MINALOC) and the Local Administrative Entities Development Agency (LODA), the PPD-Basket focuses on improving access to quality basic services and enhancing the well-being of vulnerable populations in 16 rural districts: Gisagara, Nyanza, Ngoma, Nyaruguru, Gatsibo, Nyamagabe, Ruhango, Kamonyi, Rulindo, Gakenke, Burera, Gicumbi, Rutsiro, Nyabihu, Ngororero and Nyamasheke.

The training targeted District School Engineers, Infrastructure Engineers, Procurement Officers and Directors of Planning, M&E, equipping them with practical knowledge and tools to improve project planning, execution, and supervision.

The sessions focused on critical aspects of PPD-Basket implementation, including the no-objection process, funds request requirements, fiscal year 2026/2027 planning, use of contingency funds, and strengthening supervision ownership. Participants engaged in both plenary discussions and hands-on exercises to address real implementation challenges faced at the district level.

The training emphasized improving compliance with national frameworks and donor requirements, enhancing coordination among stakeholders, and ensuring value for money in public investments. Key issues such as delays in procurement, incomplete documentation, and weak coordination mechanisms were openly discussed, with practical solutions proposed.

Participants highlighted the importance of early preparation, proper documentation, and proactive supervision to ensure timely and quality project delivery. Strengthening feasibility studies, improving contract management, and reinforcing coordination between technical and finance teams emerged as critical priorities.

In addition, the training underscored the need to integrate environmental, social, health, and safety standards into project implementation, while ensuring that all projects are properly recorded and monitored through the Management Information Systems.

The strengthened capacity of district teams is expected to translate into tangible benefits for citizens in the districts where the PPD-Basket projects are implemented.

Through this training, LODA reaffirms its commitment to strengthening local government capacity in line with its mandate under national policies and in collaboration with the Ministry of Local Government. By empowering districts with the necessary skills and knowledge, LODA continues to play a central role in advancing inclusive and sustainable development across Rwanda.