Decentralization by Devolution (D by D) has been a challenge of the Government of Tanzania (GOT) over decades. The GOT has made significant efforts particularly since late 90’s to empower the Local Government Authorities (LGAs) through promotion of fiscal decentralization, legal harmonization, and human resources autonomy. Local Government Reform Programme (LGRP: 2000-2008) was among such efforts to accelerate D by D. The second phase of the Programme currently in operation, called LGRP II (2008-2013), is a cornerstone of bolstering LGAs’ capacities to be a strategic leader and coordinator of local socio-economic development who ensures accountable and transparent services to people for the betterment of their livelihood.

In line with the LGRP, the Opportunities and Obstacles to Development (O&OD) process was initiated in 2002 to facilitate community people to plan, implement, and own their community plans with aim of shifting planning process from top-down to bottom-up. Since its initiation, GOT has rolled out the O&OD process in more than 90% of LGAs. The O&OD is presently embedded within the LGRP II framework and recognized as a core process to promote citizens’ participation in local development and accountable and transparent local governance.

It is in this context that the PMO-RALG decided to commence a new project “Strengthening Participatory Planning and Community Development Cycle For Good Local Governance” in order to further develop potential of the O&OD. The project is supported by Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) on the basis of the official agreement concluded in July 2009 between PMO-RALG and JICA. On December 8, 2009, the first Joint Coordination Committee chaired by the Permanent Secretary was held in the Conference Room of PMO-RALG and the Inception Report prepared by the O&OD Team was approved.