THE Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development has reaffirmed its commitment to developing rural areas, enhancing accessibility, and promoting economic activities.

Speaking when he featured on ‘My Government Programme’ on ZANIS TV, Permanent Secretary for Administration, Maambo Haamaundu says the Ministry’s mandate is to ensure efficiency in dispensing funds to support rural development.

Mr Haamaundu notes that in 2021, the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) allocation was significantly increased from K1.6 Million to K36.1 Million aimed at enhancing implementation of various developmental programmes across the country. 

“The CDF increase has enabled the ministry to channel resources to various constituencies across the country,” he said.

He further said the ministry had fully funded the 2022 and 2023 budgets with a total of K2.2 Billion dispensed to constituencies in 2024.

The Permanent Secretary has however expressed concern that some constituencies are not requesting larger amounts of funding despite resources being available. 

He also noted that towards the end of 2024, the Ministry received K500 Million worth of requests from constituencies which will be funded this year.

And Mr Haamaundu indicated that the Ministry had seen an improvement in efficiency, with statistics showing a 6.5% increase in 2023 which he attributed to the collaborative efforts of all parties involved.