CESO works with Municipalities in Cameroon to improve the efficiency, effectiveness, transparency and participation of municipal governments, with the goal of stimulating local development and support government decentralization efforts.
Sam Weller, a CESO Adviser, took on the challenge of enhancing financial management and revenue collection practices for the UCCC-NW (Union of Cities and Councils of Cameroon) in North West Province. The process of financial management has been a serious issue for the Municipalities, as there are no clear procedures in place for the Council’s financial management and revenue collection. This hinders the Council’s ability to provide basic services to communities.
Weller studied the Council’s practices, designed training material and led two workshops that brought together Municipal Treasurers and revenue collectors from 34 councils in the North West region. Council staff was able to share experiences and best practices for revenue collection, gain a greater understanding of revenue-related principles and learn how to better appraise their financial situation. In the near future, Councils are expected to collect revenue more effectively, which will in turn enhance services for the local population and local development projects.
According to UCCC-NW leader assessment, “Mr. Weller was able to fit into a culture and an environment vastly different than his, exercising quiet but effective leadership and valuing and highlighting each participant’s contribution.”