Micro-regional planning (MRP)

A micro-region is a distinct territorial unit with clearly marked boundaries below the regional level, but above the village level, and associated network of different actors from government, local government, the private sector and civil society. Characteristics of good micro-regional planning (MRP) are: (1) it is bottom-up (initiated by the local people or their representatives); (2) it is participatory (all stakeholders are consulted about the plan); (3) it is action-oriented (a close link exists plan development and implementation); (4) it develops the micro-region’s inherent potential; (5) it is oriented towards sustainable development; (6) land use planning seeking optimal land use management and distribution is the prime instrument of MRP. To achieve good MRP the role of professional planners has to evolve from a purely technical perspective into one of process catalyst and communicator between the planning team, decision-makers and the target group. Micro-regional planning is usually organised in a typical sequence of distinct phases: (1) analysis phase; (2) scenario writing; (3) elaboration of a development strategy or sector strategies; (4) elaboration of project profiles. The report provides an overview of proven methods to be used in each planning stage.The planning process as such is followed by the implementation stage and monitoring and continuous revision of the micro-regional plan. The planning process necessitates regular feedback and review of the work accomplished at different stages and involvement of the local stakeholders in all phases.