CSOs commend Karonga district council for transparency in development projects
Officials during the inspection
By Winkly Mwaulambo
Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in Karonga have applauded the Karonga District Council for demonstrating transparency and accountability in the developmental activities being implemented under the Government to Enable Service Delivery (GESD), the District Development Fund (DDF), and the Constituency Development Fund (CDF).
Speaking after inspecting the ongoing projects, Edgar Phiri, Chairperson for CSOs in Karonga, noted that it is rare for councils to openly engage CSOs, stakeholders, and development partners on their activities. However, he commended the Karonga District Council for its openness, stating that such transparency fosters accountability and trust.
Phiri, however, observed that some contractors are progressing too slowly, which could prevent communities from benefiting from essential services. He urged council officials to ensure timely completion of the projects as deadlines are fast approaching.
Yohane Chiona, Chairperson for Mwenechilanga A, expressed hope that security issues in the area would be addressed once the council completes the construction of a police officers’ house at Wiliro Police Unit. He pointed out that residents currently travel long distances to Karonga District Police Station for assistance, which has contributed to increased lawlessness.
Meanwhile, Karonga District Council Vice Chairperson, King Mvula, assured communities that all projects would be completed before the end of the 2024–2025 financial year.
He added that contractors failing to meet their obligations would be held accountable.
The supervised projects include the rehabilitation of Wiliro Health Centre, construction of a police officers’ house at Wiliro Police Unit, construction of drainage systems along Karonga urban roads, construction of health workers’ houses at Ngerenge Dispensary, and the construction of a mortuary along with the rehabilitation of the TB and laundry sections at Kaporo Rural Health Center.
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