Serenje Town Council has approved its proposed 2026 Annual Budget estimated at K139.1 million, following a Special Council Meeting held on 26th December, 2025, in line with the provisions of the Local Government Act No. 2 of 2019. The approved budget will now be submitted to the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development for consideration and consolidation into the national planning framework.
A key highlight of the approved 2026 budget is the increase in the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) allocation, which now stands at approximately K80 million for Serenje Central and Muchinga Constituencies. This enhanced allocation reflects Governmentโs strong commitment to decentralisation, grassroots development, and community empowerment, and is expected to substantially accelerate the implementation of high-impact projects at community level.
The increased CDF envelope will enable Serenje Town Council to scale up investments in local infrastructure development, empowerment programmes, youth and women initiatives, and improved social service delivery, thereby fostering inclusive economic growth and improving the livelihoods of residents across the district.
The 2026 budget has been carefully structured to align with the Councilโs Integrated Development Plan (IDP) and national development priorities, with emphasis on local economic development, public health and environmental management, infrastructure maintenance, revenue mobilisation, governance, and social service provision. The Council remains committed to strengthening accountability, enhancing operational efficiency, and improving service delivery.
In approving the budget, Council reaffirmed its resolve to address prevailing challenges such as revenue leakages, staffing constraints, infrastructure gaps, and debt obligations, while leveraging the increased CDF resources and strategic partnerships to achieve sustainable development outcomes.
Serenje Town Council expresses gratitude to Government, cooperating partners, and all stakeholders for their continued support, and assures residents that the approved 2026 Budget represents prudent financial planning focused on sustainable development, improved service delivery, and inclusive growth in Serenje District.