Lusaka, 14th January, 2025 – The Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development, in collaboration with its key partner – USAID Local Impact Governance Project, has today launched a crucial workshop aimed at strengthening the management of Local Authority websites and Constituency Development Fund (CDF) dashboards.
The workshop, which is being facilitated by experts from the Ministry of Local Governance and Rural Development targeting a total of 34 Local Authorities from Central and Eastern Provinces, underscores the Ministry’s commitment to enhancing transparency, accountability, and service delivery through digital platforms.
Speaking during the opening session, Ministry of Local Governance and Rural Development Director of ICT, Mrs. Judith Beene, highlighted the importance of ensuring that local authority websites remain up-to-date and functional as they serve as the face of institutions to both local and international audiences.
“A website is not only a communication tool but also a gateway for promoting transparency and providing services online,” Mrs. Beene stated.
She emphasized that councils must make effective use of their websites to showcase projects, financial statements, and other vital information that reflects the progress of their communities.
She further noted the need for Directors of Planning to take an active role in ensuring the accuracy of data uploaded onto the CDF dashboards.
“The CDF dashboard is a manual system where accuracy is key. Incorrect data compromises decision-making and accountability,” she said.
The Director encouraged participants to engage with facilitators to fully understand the processes of updating and maintaining the dashboards, noting that up-to-date dashboards would reduce the burden of manual reporting.
And Director of Local Government Administration, Mr. Ackson Habanji, echoed these sentiments, praising the collaboration between the Ministry and its partners.
He acknowledged the pivotal role played by the Local Impact Governance Programme in supporting government efforts aimed at improving local governance.
“This workshop represents a critical step in ensuring that local authorities deliver on their mandate by adopting modern digital tools for improved governance,” he added.
Participants at the workshop, who include ICT and planning officers from various local authorities, are expected to gain practical knowledge on updating websites and dashboards.
The workshop also serves as a retraining platform for returning officers and an introductory session for new participants.
In concluding her remarks, Mrs. Beene urged local authorities to leverage their websites as tools for marketing and improving service delivery.
“Let’s ensure that our websites reflect the vibrant and progressive communities we serve,” she concluded.
The Ministry reiterates its commitment to advancing the use of digital tools to foster transparency, accountability, and improved service delivery in line with its broader decentralization agenda.
Issued by:
Oscar Malipenga
Public Relations Officer
For/SERENJE TOWN COUNCIL
