Consolidation and Enhanced Livelihood Initiative (CELI) Northern and Southern Regions

The Consolidation and Enhanced Livelihoods Initiative in the North-South Region (CELI-NS) provides institutional and implementation support to the expansion of state presence and improvements in licit economic opportunities in 16 municipalities in the departments of Antioquia, Cordoba, and Nari.

This activity is part of the broader USG-Colombia Strategic Development Initiative (CSDI), which assists the GOC's National Consolidation Program in transitioning strategic regions of the country definitively out of conflict and away from illicit activities.

More specifically, CELI-NS' implementation strategy consists of an integrated development program focused on the following components: 1) improved governance; 2) increased social capital; 3) fostering economic development; 4) social infrastructure, and; 5) land.

CELI-NS also carries out activities in the cross-cutting areas of: a) environmental awareness and sensitivity, b) gender equity, and c) communications to support a culture of legality and good citizenship.In its third year of operation, CELI-NS plans to focus its strategy and project activities using FY 14 funds to generate more sustainable livelihoods and support rural economic development.

This focus is transitioning from CELI-NS' initial focus of sponsoring quick-response activities that demonstrated the effective presence of the Colombian State in remote areas of the country.

Under this new focus the following types of activities will be prioritized: 1) those that directly impact income generation in target areas; 2) support for the integration of production and commercialization in value chains in important economic sectors; 3) infrastructure improvements focused on facilitating local economic development, and 4) encouraging inclusive entrepreneurship.Seeking to increase coverage, synergies, and the sustainability of its interventions, CELI-NS also aims to strengthen and expand its strategy targeting provision of rural financial services, land restitution an