How to Develop the Local Economy – this was the topic of a training workshop for local public authorities (LPA) in the Ovi-Caprine Cluster region, covering the districts of Cimișlia and Basarabeasca. Around 30 participants, including representatives from level I and II LPAs from Cimișlia and Basarabeasca, as well as the management of the Ovi-Caprine Cluster, strengthened their capacities in local economic development during the workshop held on July 16, 2024, in Cimișlia. The topics covered were:
- "The ABCs of Local Economic Development (LED)" – facilitated by LED consultant, Ghenadie Ivașcenco;
- "The experience of Slobozia Mare village in local economic planning and development, diaspora involvement, and the experience of the 'Bacii Sudului' livestock cluster," moderated by Mrs. Valentina Carastan, Mayor of Slobozia Mare, Cahul;
- "Public-private partnerships in LED and successful examples from Moldova," presented by Anatolie Paladi, Director of the Business Consulting Center (CCA).
The seminar featured presentations and discussions on the progress made in developing the Cimișlia-Basarabeasca Ovi-Caprine Cluster, the interim results of projects, and the prospects for the livestock sector in the micro-region. In his opening remarks, Mr. Andrei Talmaci, President of Cimișlia district, reiterated the need to develop the economic sector and support the private sector from LPAs, as well as the opportunities created for the Cimișlia district economy by the Switzerland-UNDP project "Resilient and Inclusive Markets in Moldova (PRIM)."
Seminar participants learned methods and techniques for working with the private sector, planning LED, tools for interaction, stimulation and promotion, and practical experiences based on the transfer of practices from Slobozia Mare, Cahul. Specific elements that build the approach and engagement of the private sector in local development were also discussed. Good cooperation with the private sector brings money to the local budget, creates jobs, enhances the community's image and investment attractiveness, and increases competitive advantages.
The LPA training seminar was organized as part of the Switzerland-UNDP project "Resilient and Inclusive Markets in Moldova (PRIM)."