Local leaders in the Eastern Province have been urged to fully implement their performance contracts ( Imihigo) targets in order to transform the lives of the people they serve.

The Eastern Province governor, Odette Uwamariya, made the call on Wednesday while addressing local leaders and other stakeholders in Kayonza District.

Kayonza was ranked 20th nationally in the implementation of the Imihigo performance contracts last year, a drop from 6th position in 2013.

Uwamariya told participants that their performance contracts should focus on areas that bring socio-economic transformation in the community.

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

"Do you know why Kayonza dropped in the ranking? Assessments revealed that leaders are out of touch…what you do is not even known by the community. So, no wonder Kayonza got poor ranking…the population’s perception of what you do is important.”

"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. Change requires commitment, a clear mental picture and positive way of thinking,” she said.

Uwamariya warned that grassroots leaders that have failed their communities would be dealt with accordingly.

Citing a case in Kabura Cell in Kabarondo Sector, the governor wondered why its leader was still occupying office.

"The place has become a hub of illicit alcohol…why should its leader be transferred as the only punishment? It is inconceivable. What are you keeping this person in office for?” she asked angrily.

Uwamariya also urged the leaders to mobilise resources to build their own offices.

"It is a shame that some of you still work from offices in bad condition,” she said.

Rodrigue Nzayizera, who spoke on behalf of local leaders, said a number of strategies were in place to change the way they operated.

"Activities of the local leaders shall be done in accordance with the community expectations…beneficiaries will be involved at all levels. Suggestion boxes will be installed at every cell so that people can give ideas. Committees at the grassroots level were set up to assess Imihigo, so that they reflect community needs,” he said.

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