President Hakainde Hichilema has issued a strong warning to local authorities regarding the misuse and mismanagement of the Constituency Development Fund (CDF), particularly concerning the delayed construction of Chief’s palaces. Speaking at a meeting with traditional leaders from Luapula Province during the 2025 Labour Day Celebrations in Mansa District, President Hichilema expressed concern over the failure of some councils to allocate the CDF appropriately, hindering government efforts to improve the welfare of traditional leaders and fulfill infrastructure commitments.

"The construction of Chief’s palaces is a priority, and delays caused by mismanagement of the CDF are unacceptable," the President stated. He urged all local authorities to act responsibly and use the funds for their intended purpose. President Hichilema also emphasized the need for national unity and reiterated his administration’s commitment to inclusive development, calling on traditional leaders to join forces with the government in driving progress through responsible resource management.

The Luapula Province Chiefs Council, through Chairperson Chief Chisunka, commended the government for its commitment to building Chief’s palaces in the region but echoed the President’s concerns about the slow pace of project execution. Chief Chisunka urged local authorities to expedite the process for the benefit of their communities. He also praised the government for procuring contractors to work on major infrastructure projects, including the Nchelenge–Lunchinda road, which is vital for the region’s economic development.

President Hichilema concluded by calling on Members of Parliament and traditional leaders to promote unity and national development, reaffirming the administration’s dedication to strengthening partnerships with traditional authorities under the vision of “One Zambia, One Nation.”

In related news, the Parliamentary Committee on Local Governance and Housing has commended Shangombo Town Council for its exemplary performance in implementing CDF projects for 2023. The Committee’s report indicated that Shangombo Town Council successfully completed 24 out of 26 approved projects, with one in progress and only one outstanding, positioning Shangombo among the best-performing councils in the country. The Committee praised the Council’s leadership for ensuring efficient and timely delivery of community projects, including schools, health posts, and infrastructure upgrades, and urged them to sustain this momentum.

The Committee drew attention to contrasting performances across local councils, noting that while Shangombo excelled, some councils failed to implement their projects despite receiving full CDF disbursements. To build on this success, the Committee recommended improved financial record-keeping by cooperatives involved in CDF activities, regular audits for loan beneficiaries, and enhanced efforts in loan recovery to sustain the revolving nature of CDF financial support. The commendation was delivered during a session captured in a video released by the National Assembly of Zambia, highlighting Shangombo’s achievements as a model for other councils to emulate. The expression “Mazoho kwa Shangombo Town Council” has been echoed across the district as residents celebrate the tangible development.