People in Balaka learn role of Parliament, MPs
and the roles of lawmakers is causing low community participation in governance matters.
Speaking during a meeting with area development committee members from Traditional Authority Kalembo in Balaka, Centre for Civil Society Strengthening Phungu Wanga project field officer George Ntaba announced plans to establish 36 study circles under area development committees in the district to help people understand parliamentary proceedings.
He said: “Many citizens do not understand MPs’ roles and parliamentary decisions. The study circles aim to bridge this gap by offering practical knowledge on how Parliament functions and how citizens can engage their MPs.”
Makwinja Area Development Committee chairperson Dave Banda welcomed the development, saying it will enhance their ability to monitor ongoing projects.
“We have been facing challenges in monitoring projects caused in the absence of a structured platform for dialogue. The difficulty in tracking progress has led to mistrust within the community,” he said.
Kalembo Area Development Committee chairperson Rally Dagalasi said the initiative will help in mobilising community members to actively participate in development initiatives.
Balaka district community development assistant Noliwe Chalira said the project will enhance the committees’ capacity to engage meaningfully with parliamentarians.
Phungu Wanga project is being implemented in Balaka, Rumphi, Mchinji and Lilongwe districts with funding from the European Union through Save the Children with partnership of Centre for Civil Society Strengthening and Parliament of Malawi
