By Ruth Chayinda
President HAKAINDE HICHILEMA has called on councillors across the country to prioritise investment within their local authorities to boost provincial economic growth.
President HICHILEMA says councils should embark on viable economic ventures capable of generating revenue and contributing meaningfully to national development.
He notes that councils have access to resources which, if properly utilised, can transform their communities.
The President says councillors are engines of development, regardless of political affiliation.
He was speaking in Lusaka when he addressed more than 1,800 councillors who had gathered for a special meeting.
President HICHILEMA encouraged civic leaders to align their efforts with Government in order to improve the welfare of their communities.
He also called on councils to review and, where possible, reduce certain levies to enhance compliance and increase revenue collection.
The President urged local authorities to adopt digital platforms to improve efficiency and transparency in tax collection.
President HICHILEMA said the country is on the right path, noting that the economy has stabilised.
Meanwhile, he assured councillors that as the country approaches the 2026 General Election, the polls will be free, fair and free from violence.
He said elections must not result in bloodshed or division, but should instead strengthen democracy.
President HICHILEMA also cautioned against tribal politics, saying anyone aspiring to serve should be given an opportunity regardless of tribe.
At the same event, Local Government and Rural Development Minister GIFT SIALUBALO said the Ministry has concluded its review of allowances for civic leaders.
Mr. SIALUBALO said the recommendations will soon be submitted to President HICHILEMA for consideration.
He noted that revising councillors’ allowances will help motivate them as they work with Government to deliver development.
Mr. SIALUBALO further disclosed that 855,438 locally manufactured desks have been distributed nationwide using the Constituency Development Fund -CDF.
The councillors commended President HICHILEMA for implementing the decentralisation policy, which has enabled them to play a greater role in national development.
Councillors’ representative DAVID MULENGA said they are witnessing a rise in pupil enrolment in schools.
Mr. MULENGA attributed this to the increased CDF, which has facilitated the construction of additional classroom blocks and created opportunities for local contractors to take part in CDF-funded projects.
Meanwhile, Lusaka Province Minister SHEAL MULYATA said the President’s meeting with councillors demonstrates the importance his administration places on local government.
Speaking at the same event, Political Advisor to the President LEVY NGOMA observed that this was the first time a sitting President had convened a meeting bringing together representatives from all parts of the country.
