Some non-governmental organisations have said budget tracking is important for the development of communities or districts.

Speaking on Thursday in Mchinji during a District Agriculture Budget Tracking Exercise organised by Civil Society Agriculture Network (Cisanet) and National Stallholder Farmers Association of Malawi (Nasfam), SP Trainers and Research Consultants budget analyst Godwin Nyirongo said budget tracking remains key in enhancing transparency and accountability in public expenditure.

Participants follow a presentation

“A budget reflects the choices of a country and the strategy to achieve economic development. As such, a thorough tracking is vital to ensure relevant public sectors don’t get complacent in their operations,” said Nyirongo.

Cisanet head of programmes and policy advocacy Elizabeth Namaona challenged participants to monitor how budget allocations are being managed at district council level.

“Our focus lies in the agriculture sector. Regular budget tracking will help us know how much of the allocated figures go into impacting positive change in the sector.

“The more you track the budgets, the more you are equipped to make credible and timely contributions towards budget debates, including at national level. Remember, facts don’t lie and empowered communities empower others.”

The workshop attracted representatives from Concerned Youth Organisation, Girls Activist Youth Organisation, Churches Action in Relief and Development and Coalition of Women Farmers, Community Initiative for Social Empowerment.

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