Strengthening Local Economic Development: Ministry Coaches, Mentors, and Supports LEDIC Members in Apac
Apac District, Uganda – In a deliberate effort to strengthen local economic governance and drive inclusive growth, the Ministry of Local Government on July 9th, 2025, successfully conducted a targeted coaching, mentoring, and backstopping program for members of the Apac District Local Economic Development and Investment Committee (LEDIC). The initiative is part of the broader strategy to build institutional capacity and enhance the effectiveness of Local Economic Development (LED) activities across the District.
The half-day engagement, held at the district headquarters, brought together LEDIC members, including all Heads of Department, Private Sector representative and the representative from media. The sessions were designed to equip the members with practical skills and knowledge necessary for the successful implementation, monitoring, and sustainability of LED interventions.
Speaking during the opening session, the Principal Assistant Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), Mrs. Janet Odongo Akech, emphasized the critical role of LEDIC in catalyzing local development through coordinated, evidence-based planning and resource mobilization.
“This initiative ensures that LEDIC members not only understand their roles but are also empowered to deliver impactful, community-driven economic solutions,” she noted.
Key areas covered during the coaching included:
· Understanding the LED Policy Framework and Implementation Guidelines
· Roles and Responsibilities of LEDIC Members
· Planning and Budgeting for LED Activities
· Stakeholder Engagement and Resource Mobilization
· Monitoring, Evaluation, and Reporting of LED Interventions
Through interactive mentoring sessions and practical field backstopping, LEDIC members were able to assess ongoing LED initiatives, identify gaps, and receive expert guidance on how to address implementation challenges effectively.
The District LED Focal Person, who led the facilitation team, highlighted that “strengthening LEDIC functionality is vital for unlocking local economic potential, especially in priority sectors such as agriculture, trade, and agro-processing.”
Participants expressed renewed confidence and commitment to supporting LED interventions that align with community needs and the district development plan.
The Apac District Local Government remains committed to promoting inclusive, sustainable economic growth through capacity building and stakeholder empowerment. The coaching and mentoring exercise will be followed by periodic reviews and technical support to ensure continuous improvement in LED delivery.
About LEDIC:
The Local Economic Development and Investment Committee (LEDIC) is a multi-sectoral committee responsible for spearheading the implementation of LED strategies and coordinating relevant actors to foster local economic transformation.