Leaders at the local government level in Malawi’s Dowa, Ntchis and Nsanje districts say they are now able to track how funds allocated to them are being used, thanks to the Enhancing Citizenship Participation in Local Governance and Development Processes Project.

The project, implemented by the Malawi Human Rights Resource Centre (MHRRC) and funded by DANIDA through Norwegian Church Aid (NCA) and DanChurch Aid (DCA) Malwi Joint country Programme, has enabled Senior Chief Chimombo from Nsanje District and his subjects to understand how the Constituency Development Fund (CDF)  and other public development funds, operate.

“We have learned that CDF is for us, the community members, not for Members of Parliament, as was perceived,” says Senior Chief Chimombo.

He said this during an interaction session, where councillors and traditional leaders from the three districts shared knowledge and experiences on the project.

Dowa’s Mkukula B Area Development Committee (ADC) secretary Wicklow Bvumbwe, concurred with Chimombo, saying the project has promoted transparency and accountability among locals. 

“Years could pass without meaningful development progress, but this project has empowered us to hold those responsible accountable,” he explained.

MHRRC Capacity Development Associate, Noel Msiska, attributed the progress to concerted efforts among stakeholders. 

The one year project which aims at bridging the gap between Members of Parliament and local structures, is expected to phase out in December this year.