Lusaka, Zambia – January 16, 2024 – The much-anticipated capacity enhancement workshop for Members of the Local Government Accounts Committee (LGAC) officially commenced today at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Lusaka organised by the National Assembly of Zambia. The workshop aims to equip parliamentarians with the tools to strengthen financial oversight and address persistent issues in the management of local government funds.
In his opening remarks, Mr. Misheck Nyambose, MP, Chairperson of the LGAC, highlighted the significance of the workshop in preparing members to review the Auditor General’s Report on Local Authorities for the financial year ending December 31, 2023. He commended the European Union for supporting the initiative through its National Assembly of Zambia (NAZ) Project Phase II.
“The recurring issues in the Auditor General’s report highlight the urgent need for more effective measures to safeguard public resources. It is our duty as legislators to ensure that public funds are managed transparently and used efficiently to drive national development,” Mr. Nyambose said.
The workshop has brought together experts from the Office of the Auditor General, the Office of the Accountant General, and the Zambia Public Procurement Authority, who will provide critical insights into audit findings and recommend solutions.
Mr. Nyambose also acknowledged Zambia’s recent economic challenges, including the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, cholera outbreaks, and a national energy crisis caused by drought. He urged participants to remain focused and fully engaged throughout the sessions, emphasizing that effective management of public funds is vital for mitigating these challenges and supporting the nation’s recovery.
The two-day program will provide a platform for parliamentarians to examine financial irregularities, discuss remedial measures, and enhance their oversight capabilities. Mr. Nyambose expressed optimism that the knowledge gained during the workshop will strengthen the committee’s ability to hold the Executive accountable and improve the financial governance of local authorities.
The opening ceremony concluded with acknowledgments to the European Union, through the NAZ II Project managed by NIRAS, for its continued support, as well as to the resource persons and staff facilitating the workshop.
As the workshop progresses, participants are expected to engage in in-depth discussions aimed at addressing recurring inefficiencies and ensuring that public resources are managed responsibly.
