Nili - A strong partnership between provincial councils, government and civil society is a critical necessity for good governance, says Deputy Governor of Daikundi Province, Mr Habibullah Radmanish.

Speaking at a UN-backed forum on good governance, service delivery and transparency held in Daikundi's capital, Nili, Mr Radmanish hailed the efforts of civil society organisations and the provincial council in enhancing service delivery and promoting good governance. 

“The advice and constructive criticism by civil society and provincial council have helped us understand local communities’ concerns about our work, which is important to improve governance and service delivery,” said the Deputy Governor, who also called for joint ownership of projects among key players in Daikundi.

Around 30 members drawn from civil society, the media, provincial council and Government participated in the event which was aimed at fostering coordination between key governance players in order to improve transparency and service provision at community level. 

Speaking at the same event, Mr Hadi Rahimizada, a provincial council member in Daikundi, highlighted the positive role that the council has played in the planning, monitoring and implementation of provincial development plans. He restated the need for collective involvement of provincial councils and civil society for better service delivery and effective use of resources. 

Mr. Rahimizada also stressed the need for the council to have a solid and effective strategy for fighting corruption.

For their part, Government representatives at the provincial level pledged to provide provincial councils and civil society organisations with the information relating to access to project bidding processes and monitoring implementation of projects, among others.

Established in 2004, Daikundi is among the poorest provinces in Afghanistan and lagging behind in infrastructure development and economic growth.

UNAMA is mandated to support the Afghan Government and the people of Afghanistan as a political mission that provides 'good offices' among other key services. 'Good offices' are diplomatic steps UN takes publicly and in private, drawing on its independence, impartiality and integrity, to prevent international disputes from arising, escalating or spreading.

UNAMA also promotes coherent development support by the international community; assists the process of peace and reconciliation; monitors and promotes human rights and the protection of civilians in armed conflict; promotes good governance; and encourages regional cooperation.