By Mariah Kalunga
The Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development says utilisation of the Constituency Development Fund –CDF- reached 86 per cent in 2025.
Local Government Principal Public Relations Officer LISELI KANYANGA says the improved utilisation is attributed to ongoing capacity-building efforts, regular guidance and spot checks, as well as increased human resource capacity within local authorities.
Ms. KANYANGA says 19 out of 156 constituencies fully utilised 100 per cent of their budgeted funds in 2025.
She says projects implemented under the fund include the construction of classroom blocks, maternity annexes, staff houses, as well as the construction and maintenance of roads.
Other projects covered water reticulation and sanitation initiatives.
In an interview with ZNBC, Ms. KANYANGA said 38 constituencies recorded utilisation levels of between 75 and 99 per cent, while 59 constituencies used 50 per cent or less of their total allocations.
She said constituencies that attained 75 per cent utilisation and above include Mkushi, Luapula, Nyimba, Luanshya, Kalabo Central and Mpulungu.
Ms. KANYANGA said the Ministry will continue issuing simplified and revised CDF guidelines alongside capacity-building programmes for local authority technical staff.
She further disclosed that monitoring and evaluation systems will be strengthened to ensure full utilisation of the 2026 CDF allocation.
