Start of the implementation of the local governance support project in Angola

The development and promotion of public policies and participatory initiatives at the local level are essential to improve citizens’ living conditions. On the one hand, they ensure the provision of efficient and effective services in an open, competitive and equitable manner and, on the other, they allow citizens to become partners in the design and implementation of development solutions. This is the objective of PASCAL, the new European cooperation project to “Support Civil Society and Local Administration” in Angola, managed by FIIAPP and CPMA.  

Since the election of President Lourenço in September 2017, Angola has been on a new political course with the objectives of improving governance, promoting decentralisation and fostering the real and effective participation of civil society in decision-making. In this context, PASCAL will work to contribute to country’s economic growth and social development through the inclusive, heterogeneous and effective participation of civil society in the governance process at the national level and, more specifically, in 25 municipalities.   

The project’s first event took place recently. It was held online with the participation of the EU Delegation, the National Authorising Officer and the Ministry of Economy and Planning, the Ministry of Territorial Administration, FIIAPP and CPMA, accompanied by the Spanish Federation of Municipalities and Provinces (FEMP).  

The encounter marks the beginning of the implementation phase of activities and represents the first high-level space where ideas and expectations were exchanged in relation to the main themes of the project: participatory governance, local development, civil society participation, gender equality, inclusive public policies, and capacity-building.   

European partners: FEMP, Ministry of Territorial Policy and Civil Service, INAP, Community of Practice of Open Local Government and Transparency of United Cities and Local Governments (UCLG), Platform for Lithuanian NGDOs.  

Angolan partners: Ministry of Territorial Administration (MAT); Ministry of Economy and Planning and National Authorising Officer (MEP); Ministry of Social Action, Family and Promotion of Women (MASFAMU); National School of Administration and Public Policies (ENAPP); Social Support Fund (FAS); Local authorities (provinces and municipalities); Civil society organisations.