Spark Concludes Phase I of the ACE Project with the Government of Rwanda and the World Bank

At the end of 2024, Spark hosted a memorable gathering to mark the successful conclusion of Phase I of the Advancing Citizen Engagement (ACE) project—our first national pilot initiative launched in partnership with the Government of Rwanda and the World Bank. This event celebrated the remarkable progress achieved through the pilot and brought together key stakeholders, including representatives from the Government of Rwanda, district mayors, and participants from the Facilitated Collective Action Process (FCAP).

The celebration served as both a moment of reflection and recognition. Community members shared heartfelt testimonials, speaking to the tangible benefits they've experienced—from increased household asset values to improved access to essential services and stronger social cohesion. These stories highlighted the transformative power of FCAP and the collective effort behind the project’s success.

The conclusion of the ACE Project also included the World Bank’s Implementation Completion Results Mission, which featured a presentation by Spark’s team detailing key achievements and insights. The mission included field visits and productive discussions with government officials, reinforcing the project’s impact and collaborative spirit. The World Bank Task Team Leader commended Spark for its effective delivery and its vital contributions to the complex and often challenging work of national policy advocacy.

One of the project’s most significant milestones was the recent approval of the National Framework for Participatory Village Planning by Rwanda’s Minister of Local Government (MINALOC). Developed during the ACE pilot in close collaboration with the Local Administrative Entities Development Agency (LODA), this framework represents a pivotal shift in how local planning is conducted across the country. It marks the government’s formal endorsement of Spark’s participatory approach and solidifies a strong partnership at the national level.

With this approval in place, Spark is now turning its focus toward piloting the framework rollout in selected communities later this year. This next phase includes working closely with the Government of Rwanda to co-develop dissemination strategies for district authorities, operational plans to guide national rollout, and resource assessments to support implementation. The goal is clear: to scale an inclusive, community-driven planning process that reaches every corner of the country.

We’re proud to have reached this important milestone and are energized for the road ahead. The conclusion of Phase I is just the beginning. With our government partners and communities by our side, we look forward to building a future where every Rwandan village has a voice in shaping its development journey.