Kawambwa Zambia – March 3, 2026 – In a historic first-ever Special Meeting with 1,832 Councillors from across the country, President Hakainde Hichilema underscored the pivotal role of local leaders in Zambia’s decentralisation drive, positioning them as the government’s frontline ambassadors for development.
Councilor Daniel Mulenga, councilor for Ngona ward and Kawambwa Town Council Deputy Chairperson, highlighted the transformative impact of the decentralisation policy, which has elevated Councillors to the strategic focal point in local governance. He praised their key role in administering the Constituency Development Fund (CDF), now boosted from K1.6 million to K40 million per constituency. “Councillors are firsthand witnesses to the benefits of this increase in our communities,” Mulenga stated.
President Hichilema recognised Councillors as “Government’s foot soldiers who bring development closer to the people at ward level.” He emphasised their indispensable contribution to the national decentralisation agenda, while stressing the accompanying responsibilities. “With greater authority comes even greater accountability,” the President noted, urging Councillors to uphold integrity, transparency, and fairness, always prioritising the national interest.
“Development begins at ward level. When each Councillor takes responsibility for their community, we will achieve national transformation,” President Hichilema declared. He called for stronger collaboration between central government and local leaders, placing service delivery at the core of their work to address community needs and aspirations.
The meeting marks a milestone in empowering local governance, aligning with the government’s commitment to grassroots development and accountability.
– Public Relations
