Members of the Rwanda Civil Society Platform (RCSP) have been called upon to actively participate in national development programmes.

Addressing civil society representatives from the district level, the chief observer and spokesperson of the RCSP, Eugene Rwibasira, observed that there was need for the group to prove their capability before others believe in them or be considered.

"Work as a team from the lowest level to the top. This will help in achieving the set goals and many more will join,” Rwibasira said.

The meeting that took place in Kigali, was aimed strengthening the group in form of operations as well as discussing their challenges among other issues.

Gaspard Mpakanyi, the civil society representative of Ruhango District, said that among factors affecting their operations was the gap between them (RCSP members) and local leaders.

"Most of the time, when we invite local authorities like Mayors to attend our meetings or other related activities, they do not turn-up,” Mpakanyi said.

"They instead send us representatives who at times never act the way they (Mayors) would have acted.”

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