This is a one year extention of the programme which for the period 2004-2007 has received 16 MSEK.
The programme will focus on nine municipalities where Alka has not done any work in the previous programme phases. Protection of the environment is a key area for local investments promoted and supported through the programme.
The “Integrated Rural Development” program implemented by the local NGO Alka has supported rural development using the process of decentralization. It has established a strong collaboration with local governments and more importantly, with the inhabitants of rural communities. Sweden, through the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency –Sida – has been supporting ALKA and its organizational predecessors since 1999. Ordinary people reachedIn a speech at the public presentation of ALKA and its programme on December 5, the Swedish Ambassador pointed out:"“that Sweden has been able to reach a large number of ordinary people in rural areas using Alka as its own extended arm. People that rarely have been asked what they need, or have rarely been given a chance to make their own decisions together with neighbors and fellow citizens.""The participatory methodology as a foundation of all program activities and the primary focus on people, has made the program a success. It influenced a change of mind set of people. It enthused and encouraged them to actively participate in decision making processes at a local level. It helped them create their own destiny", Ambassador Cronenberg-Mossberg stated. (December 2007)