The Local Capacity Building Project is funded by European Union and is aimed at establishing mechanisms to engage local authorities with emphasis on effective decentralization process.

Joseph Munda Bindi who is the President of (LoCASL) said the re-establishment of the Local Councils in 2014 was to unite and foster service delivery to communities. He added that the local councils established LoCASL in 2011 as a body to lobby and advocate on behalf of the local councils and to strengthen governance processes in the country.

He further disclosed that some functions devolved to local councils are now under threat of withdrawal by some MDAs. He mentioned that registration of customary marriage and civil marriages, regional hospitals, paying of school fee subsidies to schools, procurement of teaching and learning materials should all be the responsibility of the local councils.

He went on to say that the central government and local councils are critical in enhancing economic integration and development which is highly needed in Sierra Leone.

Tom Vens who is the EU Head of Delegation to Sierra Leone said, the Local Council Association Capacity Building Project, is aimed at empowering LoCASL to better represent and serve its membership and subsequently work towards effective service delivery at local level.

Anthony Brewah who is the Minister of Local Government and Rural Development gave the keynote address. He said that by strengthening local ownership and capacity building the grant guarantees enhanced service delivery and human capital, adding that decision-making is unique to local content and communication among local stakeholders.