Enhanced CDF aimed at spurring rural development…

President Hakainde Hichilema has reiterated that the increase of the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) allocation from K30.6 Million to K40 Million is aimed at driving development in rural communities such as Zambezi District. Speaking during the Lunda – Lubanza traditional ceremony in Zambezi yesterday, in a speech read for him by North-Western Province Permanent Secretary, Colonel Grandson Katambi (Rtd), President Hichilema assured the people of Zambezi and the country at large of the government’s continued commitment to delivering development. The Head of State highlighted key achievements in Zambezi District, including the grading of 7.5 kilometres of rural roads linking Kasesi to Chief Ishima’s area, as well as the installation of a mini-grid energy system in Chief Mpidi’s area, which is providing sustainable power to numerous households.

He stated that the government also intends to reduce hunger through the Food Security Pack (FSP) and Emergency Cash Transfer (ECT) programmes, with a growing emphasis on irrigation and aquaculture initiatives that are already bearing fruit. President Hichilema further called for peace between the Lunda and Luvale people, assuring that the government is committed to working directly with the House of Chiefs and traditional leaders to find a lasting solution to boundary-related conflicts in the area. The traditional leader assured the government of the Lunda Royal Establishment’s support for President Hichilema in the forthcoming general elections to enable him to retain the seat and continue with his development agenda.

He further called for issue-based campaigns ahead of the August 13 general elections, stating that it will help build on the peace and unity the nation has enjoyed since independence. Senior Chief Ishindi said this through his representative, Chief Lydia Kaindama.