The New Dawn Administration has reaffirmed its commitment to equitable development, with Lavushimanda District standing as a testament to the transformative power of devolved resources, Muchinga Province Minister, Hon. Njavwa Simutowe, MP, has said.
Speaking at a ceremony to commission completed projects and hand over new equipment and loans, Hon. Simutowe stated that today’s event demonstrated the government’s vision, led by the President Mr. Hakainde Hichilema, to uplift the lives of all Zambians.
The Minister commended the people of Lavushimanda for their partnership with local authorities in fostering development, highlighting significant strides made through the enhanced Constituency Development Fund (CDF).
“Since 2022 to date, Lavushimanda District under the Mfuwe Constituency has benefited substantially from CDF,” Hon. Simutowe said. “I would be failing in my duties if I did not highlight the achievements that the increased CDF has enabled under the able leadership of President Hakainde Hichilema.”
He outlined key deliverables funded by CDF in the area, including:
1. Construction of 6 health posts valued at K3.8 million.
2. Construction of 17 classroom blocks valued at K12 million.
3. Procurement of 3,560 desks valued at K3.2 million.
4. Procurement of earth-moving equipment valued at K6.7 million.
5. Empowerment grants and loans benefiting over 500 groups.
The Minister passionately appealed to the community to become custodians of the newly procured assets. “I appeal to each one of you to be the soldiers and boots on the ground for this equipment. Safeguard it, monitor its use, and immediately raise the alarm against any form of mismanagement. Let us all ensure accountability.”
During the event, the Minister handed over a fleet of earth-moving machinery to the district valued at K6,969,620. The new equipment, comprising a tipper truck, a low-bed truck and trailer, a 5000-litre water bowser, and a tractor, will complement existing assets to accelerate road rehabilitation.
“This is a win for Lavushimanda District, as these machines will greatly improve roads that were left unattended for a long time. Your New Dawn Government has now done what others failed to do,” Hon. Simutowe declared.
In a major boost to local enterprise, the Minister also handed over cheques totalling K3,736,935.61 to 138 CDF loan beneficiary groups. He urged recipients to use the funds wisely and for their intended purposes, warning against misuse.
“I have noticed a concerning trend where some beneficiaries divide the money and change their project scope without required approval… I implore you to always communicate with the office of the Council Secretary,” he cautioned.
Hon. Simutowe further revealed that the government has increased the CDF allocation from K36.1 million to K40 million per constituency for the coming year, a move he said underscores its dedication to national development.
The Minister also commissioned other completed projects, including the Mabonga Primary School Staff House (K570,000) and the Kapanda Under-5 Shelter (K295,975), which are set to improve access to health and education.
In his concluding remarks, Hon. Simutowe thanked President Hichilema for his commitment and the steady flow of CDF resources, which he said have changed millions of lives.
