MUSANZE - District executive secretaries have been challenged to ensure proper financial management of district funds.Egide Rugamba, the Director General, Ministry of Local Government, said that the role of district executive secretaries extends beyond mere leadership.

They are also budget managers, he said, asking them to cultivate team spirit among workers so as to accomplish the districts set goals.Rugamba was speaking at the closing of a two-day retreat attended by all districts executive secretaries, in Musanze district last week.

The retreat was organised by Rwanda Association of Local Government Authorities, RALGA, aimed at coming up with their common challenges and solutions.

"We use this platform to share ideas, experiences, on financial management and human resource,’’ Richard Mberabagabo, the patron of the group said.

The Secretary General of RALGA, Theogen Karake, said their association has embarked on new initiatives aimed at building the capacity of local government officials.

He warned the district executive secretaries against nepotism while recruiting staff."If the district executive secretary is good enough, the district will develop fast,’’ Karake observed. Participants were briefed on public finances management, procurement and team work.

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