By Wongani Mkandawire

Nkhotakota, February 1, Mana: National Local Government Finance Committee (NLGFC) has commended Nkhotakota District Council for showing indicators of preparedness in their 2024/2025 budget submission with a high level of completion in projects.

Speaking during the budget discussion held with council officials at Grand Palace Hotel in Mzuzu, NLGFC Budget Analyst Jonathan Banda said the Council has shown high levels of preparedness in local revenue, especially on property rates.

“The Council has done consultations on property rate collection using the flat rating. As NLGFC, we are here to guide them on such issues,” said Banda commending Nkhotakota district council for being ahead of time. 

He said urban councils are able to raise high revenues as a result of property rates, stating that it is the right direction to take to boost local revenue for local councils.  

Nkhotakota District Council also intends to upgrade its flagship lodging building, Sitima Inn, into a two-star hotel as part of its plans to increase local revenue.

In an interview, Director of Finance for Nkhotakota District Council Khumbo Masankhula said the Council is prepared to increase its resource base by broadening revenue streams.

He indicated that the Council has put in place strategies that will see it collecting more in the ensuing fiscal year and beyond.

Nkhotakota District Council has collected K171,000,000 of the targeted K196,000,000 revenue representing 87 percent.

With two months left to reach the desired target, the Council is optimistic to reach the 100 percent revenue collection target.