By Maston Kaiya

Ntcheu, February 2, Mana: Ntcheu District Council on Thursday approved a budget of K27 billion for the 2024/2025 financial year.

The Council’s Finance Service Committee Chairperson, Jumbe Mambo, commended the house for approving the budget saying the development will fast track various development projects in the district. 

"I am happy that the 2024/2025 budget has been approved. We can now forge ahead with development projects lined up for the year," said Mambo.

He disclosed that a new system of payment to contractors has been put in place whereby contractors are requested to do the work first and get paid in phases.

Previously, contractors would ask for part payment before the works commenced a system, Mambo said, posed challenges including non-completion of projects.

The Council has three major sources of revenue namely; locally generated, central government transfers and development partners.

The Council has, in the 2025/2025 financial year, pegged local revenue at K421 million.

Mphate businessperson, Peter Chalira, commended the Council for approving the budget.

"We want to see Ntcheu develop as much as possible," said Chalira.