GOVERNMENT has called on local authorities in the country to submit their Constituency Development Funds (CDF) returns to the Ministry of Local Government and Housing before the end of this month so that they can be considered for this year's disbursements.
Minister of Local Government and Housing Eustarckio Kazonga said in an interview yesterday that his ministry will soon be releasing this year's CDF funds but emphasised that only constituencies which will submit satisfactory returns will receive funding.
"The CDF funds will be released soon but the issue is that all constituencies must submit their returns. When we are satisfied that they used last year's CDF funds according to CDF guidelines, they will qualify for this year's CDF funds," Dr Kazonga said.
He said the ministry is waiting for the Ministry of Finance and National Planning to disburse this year's CDF to his ministry. Dr Kazonga said before receiving the funds, constituencies through local authorities will have to account for the use of last year's funds.
He said constituencies must learn to account for the funds. Dr Kazonga said he is happy that some local authorities have already submitted their returns to the ministry.
He said those that will not make their submissions will not be given more funds. Dr Kazonga said local authorities should help constituencies to submit the returns early.
"Councils have a responsibility to ensure that returns are prepared because they manage CDF funds," he said.
Daily Mail