The Minister for Local Government, Francis Kaboneka, has called on local leaders to work in the interest of the people.

He was earlier this week addressing hundreds of local leaders in Nyagatare District.

The meeting drew village chairpersons, advisory councils, and heads of departments at the local level.

Minister Kaboneka said there is much that can be done by local authorities to improve service delivery to the people.

"Involve residents in searching for solutions to challenges they face. There are no tactics in leadership but being transparent and accountable to the people you lead,” said Kaboneka.

He called upon leaders to work together and to share ideas on how to meet citizens’ needs.

The provincial governor, Judith Kazayire, said the role of leaders is to lead citizens into better livelihoods.

"We should look at what our people want and then move in the direction with the people. We can go over every challenge when we seek solutions together.”

Participants reported some cases of cells that don’t hold meetings with residents, especially in Rwimiyaga Sector which Minister Kaboneka condemned as being weak.

After the meeting, the minister continued to Mbare Cell in Karangazi Sector where he joined citizens in village meetings.