Government pushes for full utilisation of CDF…

Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, Gift Sialubalo, has urged local authorities across the country to fully utilise the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) in order to improve service delivery in the country. Speaking during the commemoration of International Firefighters Day held in Lusaka today, Mr Sialubalo, said prudent utilisation of the CDF remains key to enhancing development and improving the living standards of citizens. Mr Sialubalo noted that the government has continued to decentralise development through the CDF, adding that councils must ensure resources are directed towards projects that respond to the needs of local authorities as well.

He further paid tribute to firefighters and emergency response personnel for their dedication and sacrifice in protecting lives, property and the environment. Mr Sialubalo said firefighters continue to operate under difficult and dangerous conditions but have remained committed to safeguarding communities from disasters and emergencies. “These men and women continue to put their lives at risk in order to save others.

Their commitment and sacrifice deserve recognition, support and improved working conditions,” he said. Mr Sialubalo, also disclosed that the government is currently verifying the presentation of the Fire and Rescue Services Bill in Parliament, a move aimed at improving the welfare and operations of firefighters in the country. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening fire and rescue services through continued investment in infrastructure, training and recruitment of personnel.

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Meanwhile, Zambia Council of Chief Fire Officers Chairperson, Robert Seulu, said although the government has recorded development in various sectors, the fire department still faces numerous challenges that require urgent attention. Mr Seulu, called for increased investment in the fire sector through the procurement of fire engines, command vehicles for chief fire officers and the construction of housing units for firefighters.“We have seen development taking place in many sectors, but the fire department still requires significant support in terms of equipment, transport and accommodation for officers,” he said.And, Fire Service Association of Zambia President, Billings Chanda, has urged the government to expedite the validation process for a standardised uniform for all fire brigades across the country in order to enhance professionalism in the service.Mr Chanda adds that the Fire and Rescue Department is eagerly awaiting the enactment of the Fire Act in Parliament, stating that the legislation will strengthen fire safety regulations and support firefighters in the execution of their duties.“The enactment of the Fire Act will help strengthen the legal framework of the department and improve enforcement of fire safety regulations across the country,” he said.Mr Chanda reaffirmed the commitment of firefighters to continue serving communities despite the challenges facing the sector.International Firefighters Day is commemorated annually on May 4, 2026, to honour the bravery, sacrifice and dedication of firefighters and emergency responders across the world. Mr Seulu, called for increased investment in the fire sector through the procurement of fire engines, command vehicles for chief fire officers and the construction of housing units for firefighters.

“We have seen development taking place in many sectors, but the fire department still requires significant support in terms of equipment, transport and accommodation for officers,” he said.And, Fire Service Association of Zambia President, Billings Chanda, has urged the government to expedite the validation process for a standardised uniform for all fire brigades across the country in order to enhance professionalism in the service.Mr Chanda adds that the Fire and Rescue Department is eagerly awaiting the enactment of the Fire Act in Parliament, stating that the legislation will strengthen fire safety regulations and support firefighters in the execution of their duties.“The enactment of the Fire Act will help strengthen the legal framework of the department and improve enforcement of fire safety regulations across the country,” he said.Mr Chanda reaffirmed the commitment of firefighters to continue serving communities despite the challenges facing the sector.International Firefighters Day is commemorated annually on May 4, 2026, to honour the bravery, sacrifice and dedication of firefighters and emergency responders across the world. “We have seen development taking place in many sectors, but the fire department still requires significant support in terms of equipment, transport and accommodation for officers,” he said. And, Fire Service Association of Zambia President, Billings Chanda, has urged the government to expedite the validation process for a standardised uniform for all fire brigades across the country in order to enhance professionalism in the service.Mr Chanda adds that the Fire and Rescue Department is eagerly awaiting the enactment of the Fire Act in Parliament, stating that the legislation will strengthen fire safety regulations and support firefighters in the execution of their duties.“The enactment of the Fire Act will help strengthen the legal framework of the department and improve enforcement of fire safety regulations across the country,” he said.Mr Chanda reaffirmed the commitment of firefighters to continue serving communities despite the challenges facing the sector.International Firefighters Day is commemorated annually on May 4, 2026, to honour the bravery, sacrifice and dedication of firefighters and emergency responders across the world.

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