The Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development has received a significant disbursement of over K1.4 billion from the government for the Constituency Development Fund (CDF). This additional funding, as announced by Minister Garry Nkombo during a media briefing in Lusaka, is specifically allocated to secondary school bursaries and a variety of developmental projects across the country's constituencies. The released amount represents 25 percent of the total CDF for all 156 constituencies, with each constituency having already received more than K6.4 million, which includes a 5 percent allocation for administrative costs.

Minister Nkombo further detailed the impact of the CDF, revealing that his ministry has approved approximately 216 community projects. These projects are slated for implementation in 38 constituencies and are estimated to cost over K1.2 million. Beyond infrastructure, the fund has significantly supported education, with over 10,200 pupils in 88 constituencies having accessed secondary school bursaries, totaling an estimated K21 million. Moreover, skills development has been bolstered, as more than 6,175 youths across 95 constituencies have benefited from the skills development fund, amounting to an estimated K32 million.

Empowerment initiatives have also seen substantial progress, with 536 cooperatives, comprising women, youths, vulnerable persons, and children in 10 constituencies, accessing empowerment grants totaling over K10 million. Despite these achievements, the government acknowledges the importance of ensuring timely and efficient delivery of CDF benefits to intended recipients, in strict adherence to CDF guidelines. This acknowledgement comes in response to challenges encountered in the implementation and formulation of CDF guidelines, notably delays in the establishment of Constituency Development Committees (CDCs).

Looking ahead, Minister Nkombo disclosed that the government plans to collaborate with various stakeholders, including the Ministry of Technology, to enhance the effective implementation of the CDF. Additionally, partnerships with financial institutions, such as banks, will be forged to streamline the disbursement process of the funds, aiming for greater efficiency and accountability.