Local leaders in the Southern Province have been urged to fully implement their Imihigo targets for this fiscal year in order to transform the lives of the people they serve.

The call was made by the provincial Governor, Alphonse Munyantwari, on Thursday while addressing local leaders, members of the private sector, non-governmental organisations, churches and other stakeholders in Huye District.

The event also served as a platform to celebrate the performance of the district in the execution of last year’s performance contracts.

Huye emerged the 3rd national best performer, tying with the western district of Ngororero with 75.7 per cent.

The day also served as an occasion to sign contracts between the district and its development partners grouped under their umbrella association, Joint Action Development Forum (JADF).

Governor Munywantwari told participants that performance contracts or Imihigo should focus on areas that bring socio-economic transformation within the community.

Munyantwari also said ownership and citizens’ involvement are key to successful implementation and execution of the contracts, challenging leaders and development partners to always involve residents in the planning and execution of development programmes.

"Change requires commitment, a clear vision and positive mindset,” Munyantwari said.

The governor said leaders’ efforts should focus on initiatives that advance the lives of citizens and help transform their living conditions.

"Our interventions should be geared toward bringing positive change in the lives of citizens,” Munyantwari said.

Focus on infrastructure

Huye District mayor Eugene Kayiranga Muzuka attributed his district’s good performance last year to efforts put in place to develop infrastructure, something he said helped transform the image of the district while stimulating economic growth.

He cited roads, modern buildings, water and electricity infrastructures, a modern car park and Huye stadium (both in their final stages) among projects that have helped boost the district’s image.

Muzuka said the district will continue to invest in infrastructure development so as to attain sustainable development.

Urban and rural development projects will also continue to receive attention, Muzuka said.

Streamlining investment, strengthening public-private partnership, improving literacy and increasing agriculture productivity also feature on the district’s list of top priorities.

Efforts to curb unemployment will also be among top priorities of the district, with about 7,000 new jobs set to be created this year, according to the mayor.