Minister of Local Government and Rural Development Ben Malunga Phiri has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to working with civil society organisations (CSOs) to strengthen accountability in the implementation of the Reformed Constituency Development Fund (RCDF).
Phiri made the remarks during a roundtable meeting with CSAT, the only civil society organisation that attended among those invited to discuss the implementation of the fund.
He said collaboration among government, local councils, Members of Parliament, contractors, communities and civil society was critical to ensuring that development projects deliver value for money.
“I thank CSAT for honouring the invite and we commit to always be available because we know that the success of the RCDF depends on collaboration among Government, Councils, Members of Parliament, Constituency Development Committees, contractors, communities and civil society,” said Phiri.
The meeting provided an opportunity to discuss measures for improving transparency, clarifying operational guidelines, addressing project pricing concerns and strengthening oversight of public resources.
During the engagement, CSAT Director of Programmes and Policy Albert Lulaka proposed the establishment of internal audit directorates at council level to enhance financial monitoring and ensure compliance with RCDF guidelines.
Lulaka also called for joint monitoring visits and capacity-building training for council officials, saying these measures would improve project quality and ensure the effective use of public funds.
Despite the limited participation, Phiri commended CSAT for attending the meeting and demonstrating commitment to accountability and effective service delivery.
He said the ministry remained open to engaging civil society organisations to strengthen checks and balances in the implementation of local development projects.
