LUSAKA: Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development Permanent Secretary (Technical Services), Mr. Nicholas Phiri, has expressed happiness with the progress being made to review the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) Guidelines, under the recently enacted CDF Act No. 1 of 2024.
Government repealed and replaced the CDF Act No. 11 of 2018 with the CDF Act No.1 of 2024 in order to improve efficiency and effectiveness.
The Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development, has embarked on the review of the CDF guidelines in order to align with the implementation of the CDF of the CDF Act No.1 of 2024.
Addressing the multisectoral team, whose membership is drawn from Ministries, Local Authorities, and the USAID Local Impact Governance Project, Mr Phiri emphasized the importance of refining the CDF Act No. 1 of 2024, in order to enhance its effectiveness in empowering more communities to access empowerment services.
“Looking ahead, this is one of the first but critical steps in the review of the CDF guidelines. Once the draft is complete, a broader stakeholder meeting will follow, where additional inputs will be gathered to refine and validate the document,” Mr. Phiri stated.
The Permanent Secretary further emphasized the importance of a collaborative process, saying: “This underscores the importance of ensuring that all voices are heard and incorporated into the final document.”
Mr. Phiri also stressed the need for clear and simple language in the guidelines, advising against technical jargon.
“It is essential that the guidelines provide for robust program implementation, monitoring, management and evaluation mechanisms that are user friendly. This is critical to promoting accountability, transparency and participation of citizens.” He stated.
Over the years, the implementation of the CDF has provided valuable lessons and insights, enabling the local Government to refine its approach.
“Having implemented the CDF for the past 3 years, we have gained sufficient experience to distinguish between what works and what doesn’t. This experience positions us to make informed decisions about the direction we need to take to enhance the impact of the CDF,” Mr. Phiri noted.
Additionally, Mr. Phiri encouraged the technical team to ensure that the refined guidelines reflect the multi-sectoral nature of the CDF, promoting inclusivity, sustainability, and innovation.
“I am certain that your work will also reflect the multi-sectoral nature of the CDF, recognizing the diverse range of sectors and beneficiaries it impacts.
The guidelines must promote inclusivity, sustainability and innovation, ensuring that the fund remains responsive to the evolving needs of our communities.
The review process, expected to be completed by the end of January 2025, aims to create a more efficient and effective CDF.
To the technical working group, Mr. Phiri concluded: “I encourage you to remain committed and diligent in your work. Your efforts will contribute significantly to the development of our communities, and I have no doubt that together, we will achieve great things
