By Austine Patrice Kachilika

Mzimba, February 19, Mana: M'mbelwa District Council has given its nod of approval to a K49 billion budget for the 2024/2025 fiscal year.

Speaking Saturday during a full council meeting, the council’s finance service committee chairperson, Yolanda Ngwira, said the 2024/2025 financial plan reflects the council's commitment to improving infrastructure, social services and economic opportunities within the district.

“This year’s budget aims at addressing key priorities such as the well-being and progress of the district's residents through community development, agriculture, health, gender and health, among others.

“Recognizing the importance of education and healthcare in driving socio-economic development, the district council has earmarked a significant portion of the budget to go towards construction and renovation of schools and health facilities as well as provision of essential services and equipment,” said Ngwira.

According to Ngwira, 89 percent of the budget will be funded by government, 10 percent will be donor funded while one percent will be generated from local revenue.

Member of Parliament (MP) for Mzimba South, Emmanuel Chambulanyina Jere, hailed the Council for ambitious aspirations in the budgets.

He, therefore, asked the Council to be transparent and accountable in budget utilization.

He said: “M'mbelwa District Council should be committed to fostering transparency through public consultations, regular progress reports and community engagement mechanisms to build trust and ensure that resources are allocated efficiently and equitably.”

Traditional Authority (TA) Kampingo Sibande urged MPs to prioritize development rather than politics in the implementation of earmarked projects.