Government has launched the National Community Development Policy (NCDP) and the Community Development Month (CDM) initiative, seeking to address challenges affecting communities.
Speaking at the launch at Rukuru Primary School in Traditional Authority Khosolo in Mzimba on Thursday, Minister of Gender, Community Development and Social Welfare Jean Sendeza said the two would reignite community engagement and encourage the use of local resources for sustainable development.
“Involving communities in decision-making is essential for improving key sectors such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure,” she said.
The minister pledged to enforce the NCDP and CDM to ensure enhanced educational standards, better roads, improved sanitation facilities and adequate housing for teachers.
Sendeza called on traditional leaders, local politicians, and councillors to collaborate in advancing development efforts.
“Development projects need to align with approved government policies to achieve the vision of self-reliance and sustainability. Ownership and participation by the communities are critical to this success,” said Sendeza.
Traditional Authority Inkosi Khosolo expressed optimism that the NCDP and CDM initiatives would provide traditional leaders with the tools to enhance community development.
“We have already made progress by constructing a temporary Rukuru Bridge, roads, toilets, and teacher housing. These efforts have improved the learning environment for our children,” said Khosolo.
M’mbelwa District Council chairperson, Morgan Tembo affirmed the council’s commitment to supporting Khosolo’s development projects.
“As a council, we will provide financial support to this Traditional Authority because of their demonstrated dedication to community development,” he said.
As part of the launch activities, Sendeza toured the Rukuru Bridge, Rukuru Chibeko Road, and Rukuru Primary School facilities to assess existing conditions and identify further development needs
