Severe inequality exists in Nicaragua (Gini of 0.57) with an impact on access to basic social services mainly for the rural population. The decentralization process shows remarkable advances in the legal and political framework referring to budgetary transfers for municipal investments. However, the process is slow and rural municipalities have weak capacities and financial resources. There are tendencies of politicizing local governments and citizens’ participation. The PGL-APIM-Nic merges two existing local governance programs: the “Programa de Gobernabilidad Local (PGL) and the “Apoyo Directo de Inversiones Municipales (APIM).

The program contributes to access to basic services and development opportunities by promoting inclusive local governance in order to improve the living conditions of poor people.

Citizens of 20 poor rural municipalities as direct beneficiaries, (703,200 inhabitants). Organization of civil society and local stakeholders Municipal administrations

Resultados de las fases anteriores:  

The approaches of PGL and the direct support mechanism of APIM are highly relevant. They match national priorities, and respond directly to the needs of local governments. Nineteen rural municipalities have improved their management ability in a transparent and participatory manner. Substantial effects have been achieved by raising revenues (35%), enhancing pre-investment planning (leverage of USD12 per each USD1 invested) and increasing per capita investment (from 17 to 30 USD). Lessons learnt and good practices in citizen participation, promotion of local economic development and municipal financial management will be considered in the next phase.

Fase 5 01.01.2013 - 30.06.2018   (Completed)