Wednesday, 15th January, 2025 – The Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development has called on all 116 local authorities to intensify efforts in implementing the Keep Zambia Clean, Green, and Healthy Campaign. This follows concerns that the initiative, carried out every Friday, is under-publicized, leading to a misconception that it has stalled.
Speaking at a capacity-building workshop held at Mika Convention Centre in Lusaka, the Permanent Secretary for Administration, Mr. Maambo Hamaundu, urged councils to improve visibility and engagement in the campaign.
“We have been implementing the Keep Zambia Clean campaign every Friday, but without proper publicity, people assume it is no longer active,” he said.
Mr. Hamaundu also directed local authorities to make Constituency Development Fund (CDF) dashboards publicly accessible to enable community members to track and appreciate the progress of projects funded through the CDF.
“The dashboards must be fully functional and accessible to the public to foster transparency and build trust,” he emphasized.
The workshop, held in collaboration with USAID’s Local Impact Governance Project, brought together Directors of Planning, Socio-Economic Planners, Public Relations Officers, and ICT officers from 34 local authorities in Eastern and Central Provinces. It is aimed at strengthening the management of local government websites and enhance the accuracy and functionality of CDF dashboards.
During the opening session, the Ministry’s Director of ICT, Mrs. Judith Beene, underscored the critical role of digital platforms in promoting transparency and improving service delivery.
“Websites are not just communication tools but gateways for showcasing development and financial accountability,” Mrs. Beene said, calling on councils to regularly update their websites.
Meanwhile, Director of Local Government Administration, Mr. Ackson Habanji, commended USAID’s Local Impact Governance Programme for its continued support in advancing local governance.
“This collaboration is vital in helping us achieve modern, effective, and transparent local governance,” he said, highlighting the importance of adopting digital tools to improve service delivery.
The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to using digital innovation as a means to enhance governance, accountability, and transparency in line with its broader decentralization agenda.
Issued by:
Oscar Malipenga
Public Relations Officer
For/SERENJE TOWN COUNCIL
