Secretary to the Cabinet, Patrick Kangwa, has reiterated that decentralisation remains one of the most powerful instruments available for transforming communities and accelerating Zambia’s development trajectory.
Mr Kangwa stresses the need for renewed commitment to strengthening local governments, empowering communities, investing in sustainable water and sanitation services and supporting regional development hubs as engines of growth and development.
Speaking at the commemoration of the Africa Decentralization Day held under the theme, “Empowered Local Governments for sustainable water and sanitation: Advancing Resilient, Inclusive, and Sustainable territories towards agenda 2063,” Mr Kangwa observed that government continues to make significant strides in implementing the decentralisation policy.
Mr Kangwa observed that through the continued transfer of functions, resources and decision-making to local levels, government remains dedicated to empowering communities and local authorities to respond effectively to the needs and aspirations of the people in line with the vision 2030 and the aspirations of the agenda 2063.
“This commitment reflects our government’s determination to ensure that every citizen, regardless of location, benefits from responsive institutions and equitable development opportunities,” he noted.
Mr Kangwa stated that government believes that meaningful development must be driven from the grassroots.
“President Hakainde Hichilema has consistently championed the Grow Zambia Agenda as a strategic framework for accelerating economic transformation, creating jobs, generating wealth and improving the quality of life for all Zambians.
He stated that the agenda envisions a nation where every province, district, constituency, ward and village, becomes an active contributor to national prosperity and development.
In relation to the theme, Mr Kangwa observed that this year’s commemoration is anchored on four important sub-themes that collectively highlight the priorities required to achieve sustainable local development and resilient communities.
“These are: localising water security and sanitation services through decentralised governance; women, youth and community participation in local water governance; technology, innovation and data systems for water and sanitation management; and financing local governments for water, sanitation and infrastructure development,” he said.
Mr Kangwa observed that government has made strides improving access to water and sanitation especially in underserved areas through the enhanced Constituency Development Fund (CDF) under the decentralization policy.
Meanwhile, Permanent Secretary for Water Development and Sanitation, Romas Kamanga, said adequate access to water supply and sanitation remains key on government’s developmental agenda.
And Society of the Local Government Chief Executive President (SOLACE), Judith Mambo, noted that access to safe water is a foundation for productivity and growth as communities with reliable water and sanitation are better able to support businesses, attract investment and contribute to national growth.
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