The government says the implementation of the Integrated Development Plan (IDP) should be taken seriously for meaningful planning and development in the rural areas of the country.
Minister of Local Government and Rural Development Gary Nkombo said this during the launch of the Integrated Development Plans for 18 districts of Western and Southern Province in Mongu District today.
Mr. Nkombo emphasised the importance of the launch as it will intensify on the ongoing national infrastructure development through the Constituency Development Fund which is aimed at focusing on holistic development of the province and country at large.
“Development planning of settlement in terms of expansions is important in society through local councils, it helps in maintaining communities and settlements,” he alluded.
Mr Nkombo said the IDPs were in line with the government’s projection of decentralisation of locally driven growth and development through the district structures.
The Minister explained that there was a need for people driven infrastructure which translates for economic growth and improvement of social services for the weaker in society.
“Today many councils are on the right track in the development agenda in people driven growth, which was the cry of many,” he said.
Mr Nkombo called on council and local government staff to work diligently and make sure the IDP programme was implemented entirely.
Mongu Mayor, Nyambe Muyumbana disclosed that the fruits of the implementation of the Integrated Development Plan has seen unprecedented development in the district.
Mr Muyumbana pointed out schools and roads as some of the notable projects that are being constructed under the programme, translating into social development.
“When you get into Mongu district, you can see that we have a dual carriage way that is almost complete, waiting for funds, that is one of the advantages of the IDP,” he noted.
Speaking at the same event, Local Government Commission Chairperson, Ackson Sejani tasked staff in the ministry for local government and councils to use their expertise well in the implementation of the Integrated Development Plan.
Mr Sejani pointed out that they have a huge task in making sure that these plans are implemented in a professional manner and to the benefit of the communities.
“This is a mammoth programme that requires professionalism during its implementation, this is to benefit the society,” he said.
Mr Sejani said the IDP programme will bring in reforms that will transform the economic status of the rural communities.
Meanwhile, Barotse Royal Establishment (BRE) representative, Induna Nooyo thanked the government for the mass development across the province under CDF.
Induna Nooyo expressed confidence in the government saying the traditional leadership will continue to rally behind their leadership.
