By Chisomo Kambandanga

Nkhata Bay, June 30, Mana: National Local Government Finance Committee (NLGFC) has reiterated the need for district councils to ensure that they finish projects are within agreed timeframe.

Senior Planning Officer for NLGFC, Charity Kaunda was speaking Saturday in Nkhata Bay after NLGFC delegation from NLGFC and Ministry of Finance and Economic Affairs had toured some projects supported by World Bank through Governance to Enable Service Delivery (GESD) and District Development Fund (DDF).

The delegation among others toured Chintheche and Mpamba market sheds which are now operational, the Council’s lodge and Chamber which are under rehabilitation.

Kaunda said project are implemented to answer some of the short and long term needs of the people, hence the need for Councils to meet desired projects’ timeframe so that people served on time.

“Our visit aimed at encouraging the Council to fast-track implementation of projects on time not only as a requirement for the Council to access grants from GESD and other funding windows but to ensure that communities start using development facilities on time,” she said.

The Planning Officer applauded Nkhata Bay District Council for well packaged development components of its projects to meet the required services of communities.

"Overall after visiting a number of projects, the Council is doing well in terms of projects as they meet the service delivery requirements of communities," Kaunda added.

Director of Planning and Development (DPD) for Nkhata-Bay District Council, Edgar Chihana said the Council’s interaction within was crucial as it was a platform through which the two parties share knowledge for the Council to improve in projects’ management.

Chairperson for Mpanda Market, Losina Nyirenda, said the sheds contribute to viable market environment.