Exchange of Experiences between the Consultative Bodies of Souss-Massa and Guelmim-Oued Noun: Towards a Strengthened Participatory Democracy
A meeting was organized to exchange experiences between the consultative bodies of the Souss-Massa and Guelmim-Oued Noun regions. The meeting, which began in Agadir on Thursday, November 23, 2023, focused on the theme “For effective consultative bodies supporting the consolidation of participatory democracy.
Karim Achengli, President of the Regional Council of Souss-Massa, emphasized in his speech the importance of this meeting within the framework of the openness policy adopted by the region. He praised the significant role played by the consultative bodies in the development of the regional development program.
For his part, Abou Seif Al-Nahi, Vice-President of the Regional Council of Guelmim-Oued Noun, stated that this meeting was an opportunity to exchange successful experiences between the consultative bodies of both councils and marked the beginning of establishing cooperation mechanisms between the two regions, considering their geographical proximity.
The second day of the forum was dedicated to studying the structure and organization of the work of the consultative bodies and the methods of coordination between their members. This included internal regulations to ensure the sustainability and organization of the work, as well as the methodology for preparing the annual work program.
Participants also focused on developing strategies for thematic groups and working groups, strengthening the capacities of the members of the consultative bodies, and the principles and charter of collective work.
In terms of communication, the best practices for both internal and external communication were reviewed, along with the methodology for communicating with the Regional Council, the regional administration, and engaging with the external environment.
Regarding the monitoring of the implementation of the regional development program, participants discussed the mechanisms for tracking the activities of the Regional Council and the permanent committees, as well as the responsibilities and roles assigned to these consultative bodies, particularly in providing advice on the regional development program and issues within their areas of expertise.
In addition to drafting reports, recommendations, conclusions, a summary of the body’s work, activity reports, and parallel activities, participants focused on identifying and addressing the needs and priorities of target groups.
The forum concluded with the presentation of several success stories and the development of recommendations by the participants.