Applying the comprehensive LED approach : the case of Mozambique

The present study provides a practical illustration of how the Local Economic Development (LED) Approach can be implemented in post-conflict situations. Through a process of consensus building, participatory decision-making and opening channels for dialogue between different economic and social partners, the LED Approach has been successful in rooting a new round of local economic development in three provinces of Mozambique. On an operational level, the report focuses on the case study of Manica province to demonstrate how LED tools have been employed and in what circumstances. It provides a step-by-step account of the creation of a Local Economic Development Agency (LEDA), together with an assessment of the LEDAs major achievements to date in terms of employment and enterprise creation. The report concludes with the lessons learnt from implementing the LED Approach in Mozambique and proposes several recommendations for developing future policy orientations.