As part of its efforts to decentralize and transfer some of its functions to local authorities, the government has initiated the process of attaching 51,500 civil servants to these entities. This move is aimed at improving the delivery of public services at the local level and ensuring that government functions are more efficiently and effectively carried out.
In accordance with the Constitution, the government has approved the Revised National Decentralisation Policy and plans to attach 51,500 civil servants to local authorities. This will be done in a phased manner in 2023, with eight functions under the six devolving sectors being transferred to local authorities. Chief Government Spokesperson, Chushi Kasanda, made the announcement.
In addition, human resources from the central government will also be attached to these local authorities. This move, announced by Ms. Kasanda, who also serves as the Information and Media Minister, aims to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of local government operations.
The government has announced plans to attach 51,500 civil servants to local authorities, with functions ranging from transport and logistics to youth, sports, and arts. Other ministries involved in the initiative include tourism, home affairs and internal security, health, and fisheries and livestock. This move is aimed at improving efficiency and effectiveness in service delivery at the local level.
According to Ms. Kasanda, this transfer of functions is intended to ensure that developmental issues are addressed effectively and efficiently, and that the needs of the people are met. This move is expected to bring about positive changes in the way local authorities operate and interact with their communities.
According to a statement released by a government official, measures have been put in place to ensure a seamless transition of human resources, assets, and financing. The new system will involve both Civic and Civil Administration, with clearly defined work relationships.
According to Ms. Kasanda, the majority of these civil servants (50,549) will come from the Ministry of Health. Additionally, 756 employees from Fisheries and Livestock, 99 from Transport and Logistics, 101 from the Ministry of Tourism, and seven from the Ministry of Youth, Sport, and Arts will also be assigned to local authorities.
