| |
Serbia’s Development
Organization (SDO) is now working closely with America’s Development
Foundation (ADF) to continue implementing Community Revitalization
through Democratic Action Program (CRDA) type activities in
municipalities throughout Serbia. With previous USAID support, ADF
implemented the CRDA program in 26 municipalities in Vojvodina and
Eastern Serbia from July 2001- July 2007. SDO and ADF are working in
partnership to mobilize new resources from the government of Serbia
and other international organizations including the European
community to continue such important work in Serbia. This civil
society and economic development program mobilizes citizens to
engage in improving their quality of life; promotes economic
development in local communities; and builds mutual trust between
citizens and government.
CRDA raises awareness of the importance of civic participation,
facilitates the creation of an array of community organizations
through which communities can plan and manage local initiatives
while building dialogue and cooperation with local government
authorities and structures.
In support of local civic and economic initiatives, ADF’s CRDA
program developed and implemented 1,035 projects in cooperation with
local communities and local governments in the areas of agriculture,
small and medium enterprises (SMEs), tourism, market access and
trade, economic and public infrastructure, local economic
development, civic participation and the environment. Over 1,382,300
people were beneficiaries of program activities totaling more than
$50 million in value including the $30 million mobilized in matching
resources.
Improvements in economic environment and infrastructure were a high
priority for both communities and municipalities and 591 projects
valued at $27,470,440 for these activities were completed. In
addition to establishing 67 community development centers and 15
citizens assistance centers, ADF reconstructed and equipped 85
schools, 32 kindergartens, 53 health clinics and hospitals, 27
cultural institutions, 7 sports centers and 17 children playgrounds.
Also, other important public infrastructure was improved including
the following: roads in 25 communities; water supply in 18
communities; electricity and gas in 26 communities; and solid waste
and sewerage in 33 communities.
In continuing to implement CRDA type activities in municipalities
throughout Serbia, SDO and ADF are working together to assist local
governments to be more responsive to the needs of communities and
businesses and further improve municipal services and infrastructure. |
|
|
