Government has disbursed over 2.7million kwacha grants to 69 successful youth and women clubs.
The grants are under the 2026 Constituency Development Funds (CDF) for Lubansenshi Constituency in Luwingu District in Northern Province.
Speaking when she officiated at the handover ceremony yesterday Northern Province Acting Permanent Secretary Beauty Undi-Phiri underscored the role that grants plays in stimulating economic activity that contribute to the growth of the local economies.
“Today we are presenting grants to 69 successful beneficiaries out of the total of 225 applications received, this is a testament to keen interest and enthusiasm of our communities in leveraging these opportunities to drive development,” Ms Undi-Phiri explained.
The Acting Permanent Secretary said government significantly increased the Constituency Development Fund allocation from 1.6 million kwacha in 2021 to K 40 million in 2026 to among other thing in empower communities.
“This bold move underscores governments resolve to ensure that communities themselves identify and implement projects that address their most pressing needs,” she added.
Ms Undi-Phiri has since urged beneficiaries to use the grants wisely to better their livelihoods.
And Luwingu District Commissioner Chomba Chileshe appealed to beneficiaries to ensure that they use the money for its intended purpose.
Mr Chileshe further cautioned beneficiaries against sharing the grants as this would perpetuate poverty.
He said government was determined to ensure that people live out of poverty through various initiatives among them, the grants under CDF.
“This government is determined to improve the welfare of its people, the onus is now on you beneficiaries to make the government proud by prudent utilization of the funds,” Mr Chileshe said.
And beneficiaries who spoke through Beatrice Mulenga, Njeke Womens Club Chairlady thanked government for fulfilling its promises to empower local communities.
“I want to thank this government for empowering us, this will alleviate poverty in our households,” Ms Mulenga said.
She has since called on government to ensure that it continues with such initiatives that uplift the welfare of communities.
