Minister of Local Government and Rural Development Ben Malunga Phiri has engaged civil society organisations (CSOs) on the implementation of the Reformed Constituency Development Fund (RCDF), with a focus on strengthening accountability, transparency and value for money in local development projects.
The roundtable meeting was convened to update CSOs on the implementation of the fund, clarify operational procedures and guidelines, address pricing concerns and discuss measures to improve oversight.
However, the Centre for Social Accountability and Transparency (CSAT) was the only organisation among those invited to attend the meeting.
Despite the low turnout, Phiri proceeded with the engagement, commending CSAT for demonstrating commitment to accountability and effective service delivery.
The minister said the decision to continue with the meeting was driven by the organisation’s genuine interest in promoting transparency in the use of public resources.
During the discussions, CSAT Director of Programmes and Policy Albert Lulaka proposed the establishment of internal audit directorates at council level to strengthen financial oversight and ensure compliance with RCDF guidelines.
Lulaka also recommended joint monitoring visits and enhanced capacity-building training for council officials to improve compliance, quality assurance and the effective utilisation of public funds.
He stressed that continuous engagement, clear guidelines and stronger oversight mechanisms were necessary to ensure that projects funded through the RCDF deliver value for money.
Phiri said CSOs play an important role in monitoring the implementation of the fund, adding that the ministry had invited them to strengthen their contribution to checks and balances in local development.
He reaffirmed government’s commitment to working with civil society organisations to ensure public funds benefit communities.
“I thank CSAT for honouring the invite and we commit to always be available because we know that the success of the RCDF depends on collaboration among Government, Councils, Members of Parliament, Constituency Development Committees, contractors, communities and civil society,” said Phiri.
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