On April 7th-11th 2025, 40 representatives for Local Governments in Zambia, Kenya, Uganda, South Africa and Sweden met in Lusaka, Zambia within the framework of an international climate action network funded by Swedish International Centre for Local Democracy (ICLD).
All of the participants where engaged in different types of project, but with the clear objective of working for democratization at the local level based on ICLD Core Values (equity/inclusion, participation, transparency and accountability) and a rights-based approach (HRBA) even if some of the projects can be considered as more technical.
The meeting contained opportunities for peer learning and exchange, as well as learning about work for sustainable development in Lusaka through presentations, discussions and field visits.
I was there as a representative for Region Västerbotten Sweden, together with Ida Lestander, Director at Region Västerbotten. I am contracted by Center for Rural Medicine, Region Västerbotten as a Senior Advisor and International Project Manager.
The week was very rewarding and I do hope that there will be more opportunities for these local governments and other local governments to participate in international networks and trainings for sustainable development in relation to democratization organized by ICLD.