Policy Development, Research, Lobbying and Advocacy

Preamble

The core business of UCAZ is lobbying and advocating for changes and improvements in local and national legislation and promoting democratic, transparent, efficient and effective local government, which is responsive to the needs of local communities. Both central and local government recognise that the quality and extent of the research which they are able to undertake will enhance their contributions to good governance, the strengthening of democratic institutions and to development generally. An association that can support its policy proposals in any specific area with solid research findings is likely to be taken seriously and will be better equipped to propose alternative policy proposals for presentation to central government for consideration. Improved research will demonstrate to government that UCAZ can play an important role in the formulation and development of local and national policies.

Objectives

To promote local democracy, decentralisation and good governance,
To enhance the quality and depth of policy formulation, analysis and the research capacity of UCAZ to support the Association’s lobbying, representation and negotiating roles,
To develop and maintain links with government, parliament and civil society organisations,
To ensure that local authorities are operating in a conducive socio-economic and legislative environment,
To achieve greater financial autonomy, transparency and accountability for local authorities through reforms of the local government finance system.