Ntchisi District Council director of planning and development Violet Kamasumbi says it is important to engage people in projects the council is implementing in the 2022/23 financial year.

In an interview, she said the council, with support from the Malawi Human Rights Resource Centre (MHRRC), conducted meetings with Area Development Committees (ADCs) in the district’s seven traditional authorities to disseminate what is in the district’s Annual Investment Plan.

“We want people on the grass root to know the projects earmarked to be implemented in their areas,” said Kamasumbi.
Chikho ADC chairperson Mavuto Chisaka commended the council for sharing copies of the District Development Plan.

“The knowledge of the plan will enhance citizen participation in the development process,” he said.
Senior Chief Kasakula said it is important to engage structures such as the ADCs on projects.

“You cannot talk of development in the district without talking about ADCs who always play a crucial role in the development process,” he said.
MHRRC projects officer Limbani Phiri said they sponsored the meetings under its Enhancing Citizens’ Participation in Local Governance and Development Processes Project after realising that there is limited engagement between duty-bearers and community members on plans and budgets.
With funding from the Norwegian Church Aid and DanChurchAid, MHRRC is implementing the project in the district. n

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