Ministry urges councils to step up service delivery

Minister of Local Government Ben Phiri has challenged local councils to take full responsibility for service delivery, insisting there is no excuse for underperformance.

His remarks came Wednesday during the opening of the Malawi Local Government Association (MALGA) Extra-Ordinary General Assembly, held from December 17 to 18, 2025.

Phiri described the gathering as a key platform for stakeholders, including councilors and commissioners, who play a critical role in Malawi’s decentralization agenda.

He said the government has devolved significant responsibilities to local councils, empowering them with both authority and resources.

“The people on the ground are the first point of contact when crises arise, whether in health, education, or disaster response. They have been entrusted with both responsibility and funding. There is no excuse for looking to the central government. It is up to them to raise their standards, embrace the President’s vision, and deliver effectively,” Phiri said.

The minister also highlighted challenges with oversight, noting that some council members lack the expertise to hold technical officers accountable.

He called on MALGA and other stakeholders to strengthen oversight mechanisms and ensure resources are managed efficiently, free from corruption and mismanagement.

Phiri urged councils to abandon past mistakes, corruption, and personal business interests, emphasizing the importance of professionalism and vision in public service.

He stressed that local authorities must rise to the challenge to meet citizens’ expectations.

MALGA Executive Director Hadrod Zeru Mkandawire outlined the association’s strategic plan, which will be validated and adopted during the assembly.

The plan focuses on deepening decentralization and enhancing the capacity of council directors and technical staff for better service delivery.

“The strategic plan prioritizes capacity building, translating policy into practical programs, and strengthening oversight of public finance and service delivery. We aim to provide council members with comprehensive support so they can fulfill their responsibilities effectively,” Mkandawire said.

He added that MALGA will continue policy research to generate evidence and recommendations for government decisions, creating a conducive environment for local authorities to thrive under decentralization.

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