Keda LEADER: Optimising the Potential of Local Assets for Rural Development of Keda Municipality
Duration: 1/5/17 ‐ 28/2/21
Geographic area: Keda, Ajara
Implemented by: CENN
Donor: European Union’s ENPARD II Program
The project supported the Government of Georgia to reduce rural poverty and improve living conditions in Keda Municipality. The project addressed economic, social, and environmental concerns by improving the competitiveness of agriculture, promoting the sustainable management of natural resources, and building climate-resilient rural economies and communities. Specifically, the project supported local actors to overcome underlying causes of existing constrains, including (a) lack of capacity in rural communities for engagement in planning of sustainable on- and off-farm economic activities and establishing business linkages; (b) absence of a unified vision for the fostering of rural development and boosting the competitiveness of local assets at the local government level; and (c) a lack of innovative modern approaches for economic diversification through the sustainable use of natural resources — optimising the potential of an area with limited resources for agricultural activities.
The objective of the action was to diversify local economic activities, foster investment and empower competitive agricultural and environmental practices in Keda Municipality via bottom-up strategic planning of rural development. The project had three main outcomes: (i) establishment of a Keda LAG with equal gender and youth participation; (ii) development of a gender and youth-sensitive LDS; and (iii) demonstration of rural economic diversification and inclusive growth opportunities via implementation of innovative (smart, sustainable, resilient) projects.
Rural and
community-led
local development (CLLD)
Due to the program’s support, the gender and youth-sensitive KEDA LDS was developed in a participatory manner. The KEDA LDS incorporates specific needs of vulnerable groups. Relevant state authorities approved the KEDA LDS that attracts investment opportunities, thereby facilitating further social, cultural, and economic integration and development. The development needs of Keda municipality were prioritized in the national agenda and programs. The Keda Local Development Strategy creates an environment for targeted rural investments and increased quality of life in the municipality through participatory planning.
The Keda Local Action Group (LAG) is established with equal gender and youth participation and is engaged in the rural development process following the participatory approach and LEADER principles. Local women, youth, and disadvantaged groups were actively engaged in the local rural development planning and implementation stages.
Enabling business environment for an inclusive economy
With the support of the project, employment and livelihood opportunities were created and quality of life was improved, particularly for the poor and marginalized population, through financing projects prioritized by the Keda LDS and building the capacity of local stakeholders. In particular, a total of 97 projects were funded under the five grant rounds that included the following areas: agriculture, tourism, the environment, manufacturing, education, culture, service industry, and sport. More than 300 jobs were created.