Photo courtesy GATE Lebanon, © RET Germany

Article by Carine Harouny, Operations and Communications Officer for GATE Lebanon, RET’s local implementing partner

AKKAR, LEBANON – More than 50 mayors, union presidents, and committee representatives from across Akkar recently came together with a shared purpose: finding practical solutions to local challenges and shaping a stronger future for their communities.

The large-scale coordination meeting, held at the Zouk El Hosnieh Municipality building, was organized under the BMZ-funded project implemented by RET Germany in partnership with GATE Lebanon. Bringing together local authorities, development actors, and community leaders, the event highlighted the importance of collaboration in driving sustainable development across North Lebanon.

The meeting was attended by Eng. Ayman Abdallah, Representative of RET Germany in Lebanon, alongside members of the GATE Lebanon team. It provided an opportunity to present the project’s ongoing interventions, review achievements to date, and discuss the evolving needs and priorities of municipalities and unions throughout Akkar.

Behind every successful development initiative is a municipality working to make it happen. By strengthening local governance and coordination, communities are better positioned to improve services, respond to challenges, and implement projects that directly benefit residents.

One of the key announcements was the launch of a new support initiative for Municipal and Union of Municipalities Police. As part of the upcoming phase of the project, 180 municipal police officers across Akkar will receive work uniforms and professional footwear, improving their safety, visibility, and operational readiness. These officers play an essential role in maintaining public order, supporting community safety, and assisting residents during emergencies and daily operations.

The meeting also created space for meaningful dialogue on local development priorities. Municipal leaders reviewed ongoing activities, discussed challenges facing their communities, and explored opportunities for future cooperation. Participants shared ideas for projects aimed at strengthening livelihoods, improving public services, and supporting economic development.

To deepen these discussions, dedicated coordination meetings were later held with the Akroum Union of Municipalities and the Nahr Ostwan Union of Municipalities. Particular attention was given to agricultural infrastructure projects, a critical priority in rural Akkar where agriculture remains a primary source of income for many families. Improved infrastructure can help farmers access markets more efficiently, reduce production costs, and strengthen local food systems.

Participants also highlighted obstacles that continue to slow development efforts, including challenges related to incomplete cadastral land surveys, which create legal and administrative barriers for infrastructure projects. Addressing these constraints will be essential to unlocking future investments and ensuring that development initiatives can move forward effectively.

“Strong partnerships with municipalities are essential because they ensure development efforts respond to real community priorities,” noted Eng. Ayman Abdallah during the discussions.

As new initiatives take shape and partnerships continue to grow, RET Germany and GATE Lebanon remain committed to supporting local governance structures and helping communities turn priorities into action. From strengthening municipal services to advancing agricultural development, these collaborative efforts are laying the foundation for more resilient, inclusive, and prosperous communities across Akkar.

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