All – Page 28 – Ma-implic

Additional support for Local Authorities hosting Ukrainian refugees

In the wake of the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the Republic of Moldova found itself grappling not only with its own concerns but also the shockwaves emanating from the neighbouring conflict. Among those organizations who stepped up in response was Skat Consulting, extending a helping hand to those impacted both Ukraine and Moldova. Through their ASIST Project in Moldova, Skat Consulting has played a vital role in rehabilitating destroyed homes and water supply systems, providing a glimmer of hope to those displaced by the conflict and the communities hosting them.

As the consequences of the Ukrainian conflict echoed, Moldova unexpectedly became a haven for a significant number of refugees. At first, the focus was on immediate needs like shelter, food, and clothing. However, as time evolved, a more organized, long-term approach took root – especially aimed at supporting the most vulnerable, including the elderly, women, and children who had found refuge in Moldova for over six months.

The response of Moldova’s local communities to the refugee influx was notable. Their assistance evolved from being sporadic to a well-structured, consistent effort. With increased services such as housing, education, social protection, and access to public amenities, local authorities faced the challenge of sustaining this support amidst growing needs.

A standout move came from the MĂ IMPLIC project, which sought to address the needs of local groups caring for refugees. Eight partner Local Public Authorities (LPAs) were chosen to receive additional funding, a lifeline for those running temporary refugee shelters or daycare centers. These centers faced increased operational costs, including the added burden of high heating expenses during the colder months.

More than 450 Ukranian refugees (including children) have found a haven in Valea Perjei, Fundurii Vechi, Loganesti, Selemet, Copceac, Caplani, Stefanesti, Mihaileni. The respective LPAs are supporting them by providing housing, food and personal hygiene products, medical and educational services, counselling services a.o.

The financial support extended to these partner LPAs ranged from 30,000 to 40,000 Moldovan Leu (MDL) each, aggregating to a total donation fund of 300,000 MDL. This assistance translated into tangible improvements tailored to each community’s unique needs – from IT equipment for learning to books, playground installations, food provisions, and hygiene products.

In the period of 2021 to 2023, thirty municipalities/groups of municipalities are implementing projects aimed at improving the delivery of communal services with the support of the “MĂ IMPLIC” project. The project is funded by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) and implemented by SKAT Consulting. The project intervention goes beyond infrastructure improvement, the project helps municipalities also develop sustainable approaches and models to maintain this infrastructure and ensure the sustainability of services provided to the community. A complete list of partner municipalities can be found here.

#maImplic #skatConsulting #civicengagement #communalservice #refugeesupport

Strengthening the capacity of Communal Services Operators for sustainable service delivery

Between March and July 2023, representatives of communal services operators from 30 partner municipalities participating in the “MĂ IMPLIC” project underwent a series of specialized training sessions. The purpose of these training courses was to enhance their knowledge and develop skills necessary for the successful execution of their service-related activities.

Over a period of five months, administrators, accountants, and other employees from communal service providers participated in 17 training sessions, organized into six modules. These modules covered crucial areas for effective service provision:

Organizational and Human Resources Management
Operational Management in the areas of sanitation, water supply, public street lighting
Legal and Regulatory Framework
Material and Logistics Resource Management
Financial Management
Marketing and Customer Relations

The training sessions were conducted by members of the “Mă Implic” team, individual consultants with expertise in specific fields, as well as specialized institutions. Participants received both theoretical knowledge and practical training, which was reinforced through project work and assignments. Upon completion of the training, participants were awarded participation certificates, recognizing their commitment and achievements.

The specialized training provided to the communal services operators under the “MĂ IMPLIC” project plays a crucial role in enhancing their knowledge and skills. By empowering these operators, the project contributes to the improvement of communal services, fostering sustainable development within the communities. The project’s emphasis on capacity building and sustainable practices reflects its commitment to achieving long-term benefits for the participating municipalities. Through continued collaboration and investment in communal services, the project aims to create lasting positive impacts on the overall well-being of the communities involved.

It is worth noting that from 2021 to 2023, thirty municipalities/groups of municipalities are implementing projects aimed at improving the delivery of communal services with the support of the “MĂ IMPLIC” project. The project is funded by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) and implemented by SKAT Consulting. The project intervention goes beyond infrastructure improvement, the project helps municipalities also develop sustainable approaches and models to maintain this infrastructure and ensure the sustainability of services provided to the community. A complete list of partner municipalities can be found here.

#maImplic #skatConsulting #streetlighting #solidwastemanagement #sewage #civicengagement