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The Alliance for Accountability Advocates Zambia (AAAZ) has called on the government to undertake a nationwide audit of the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) to ensure transparency and effective use of the expanded financing mechanism.
The appeal comes as Zambia implements the 8th National Development Plan (2022–2026), which success depends heavily on efficient and accountable management of public resources, including the CDF.
AAAZ Communications Officer, Melbourne Mushitu, said the government has significantly increased CDF allocations as part of its decentralisation agenda aimed at boosting citizen empowerment and equitable development.
Mushitu noted that between 2020 and 2024—and with further funding provided in the 2025 budget—substantial amounts had been disbursed to constituencies and local authorities to support community-driven projects.
“Ensuring that allocated funds are effectively and transparently used is critical to achieving national development priorities, strengthening public trust, and delivering meaningful socio-economic improvements,” she said.
She added that despite higher allocations, many constituencies and councils still had large unspent balances from the 2023, 2024 and 2025 allocations.
Reports and stakeholder observations indicate that administrative bottlenecks, limited implementation capacity and weak oversight mechanisms have contributed to delays in project execution and, in some cases, complete non-utilisation of funds.
“The current gaps in CDF utilisation highlight the need for a thorough review and strengthened accountability measures to ensure that public resources translate into tangible development outcomes for all citizens,” Mushitu said.
She said an audit would help guide corrective measures, improve oversight and enhance implementation capacity at both constituency and council levels.
Mushitu also stressed the need for strengthened citizen participation in CDF processes, including project identification, monitoring and evaluation.
She urged citizens and civil society organisations to actively monitor and track CDF spending to ensure effective utilisation of resources.
“A people-centred approach to development is essential for ensuring that no one is left behind,” she said.
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