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ADF established 81 Community Development Centers (CDCs) to become multifunctional hubs for community civic and economic life. These centers were most often established in MZ offices or cultural centers, with a few of them having premises at more than one location.
Community Development Centers
ADF established 81 Community Development Centers (CDCs) to become multifunctional hubs for community civic and economic life. These centers were most often established in MZ offices or cultural centers, with a few of them having premises at more than one location. ADF supported over 111 projects for reconstructing, renovating and equipping CDCs. The improved centers have been equipped with computers, software, printers, scanners, copy machines, projectors, fax machines, sound systems, other office equipment, computer desks, conference tables, cabinets, chairs to provide many new services to citizens.
Impact
- MZ offices and other local facilities were improved to support the array of services provided by CDCs. Approximately 70% of the CDCs became multifunctional. The average number of clients per month at a CDC was about 350.
- The renovated and equipped CDCs served as venues for events, including civil organization meetings, open citizens meetings, cultural events, village celebrations, forums, presentations, and exhibitions.
- The computer centers within CDCs offer computer education and serve as a central venue for training and internet use by many in the community, especially youth.
- Most centers also provide other educational services, such as foreign language training, agribusiness development, business start-ups, health protection, and crafts production.
- Citizens can obtain information at CDCs on various subjects, including access to credit and development funding, job availability, and community initiatives and issues.
- CDCs have become focal points in communities as they host NGOs and business organizations including agricultural cooperatives.
- CDCs coordinate local community advocacy campaigns.
- CDCs serve as a vital link between citizens and local government.
