Nkhatabay Central legislator Simon Vuwa Kaunda has called on the Ministry of Local Government to instruct all local councils in the country to unlock the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) so that local authorities can begin using it to renovate community infrastructures damaged by heavy rains in his area.
Vuwa Kaunda told Parliament on Thursday that reports reaching him indicate that the CDF funds were already disbursed to local councils in October this year, and he questioned why the funds were not being utilized for such crucial developments.
He emphasized that as legislators, they are mandated to exercise a representation role, which is why he raised the issue in the house and brought it directly to the attention of the responsible ministry.
The legislator highlighted the urgency of addressing damaged community facilities, noting that delays in accessing the CDF hinder local development and negatively impact communities relying on these infrastructures.
Vuwa Kaunda also stressed the need for accountability and transparency in the use of CDF funds, urging local councils to ensure that the allocated resources are used promptly and effectively.
In response, Minister of Local Government Ben Phiri advised the concerned legislator and others sharing similar concerns to present their grievances to District Commissioners (DCs) in their respective jurisdictions for proper consideration.
Phiri assured that the ministry is committed to overseeing the proper use of development funds and that complaints brought through the correct channels would receive attention and appropriate action.
The call comes amid rising concerns over the impact of heavy rains in Nkhatabay and other districts, highlighting the importance of timely mobilization of resources to repair and maintain essential community infrastructure.
