President Hakainde Hichilema told Parliament that government intends to increase the Constituency Development Fund next year, linking the planned expansion to efforts aimed at strengthening governance, fighting corruption and stabilising the cost of living.
Speaking during a parliamentary session in Lusaka, the President outlined an economic direction that places local development at the centre of national policy. He stated that increasing the CDF allocation would allow communities to accelerate infrastructure projects, social services and small-scale economic activities that directly benefit citizens at constituency level.
Hichilema explained that the proposed funding increase forms part of a broader strategy to ensure public resources reach communities more efficiently. He noted that decentralised development remains a key pillar of government policy, with the CDF programme viewed as a tool to deliver visible progress in areas such as education, healthcare facilities and youth empowerment initiatives.
The President also spoke about the need to reinforce accountability mechanisms. He indicated that expanding funding would be accompanied by tighter oversight structures intended to reduce misuse of public resources. According to Hichilema, strengthening transparency within development programmes helps maintain public trust while supporting long-term economic stability.
During the address, the Head of State emphasised that the fight against corruption remains central to government planning. He said economic progress depends on protecting public funds and ensuring that development projects serve intended communities. The President stressed that governance reforms are designed to create a system where resources are used responsibly and efficiently.
Price stability featured prominently in his remarks. Hichilema acknowledged concerns about the cost of living and told lawmakers that stabilising prices requires coordinated fiscal discipline and improved economic management. He said government policies aim to create conditions that support local production while protecting household purchasing power.
Members of Parliament listened as the President described how increased funding at constituency level could support entrepreneurship and small-scale economic initiatives. He explained that communities benefit when local leaders have the resources to respond directly to development priorities identified by residents.
Hichilema indicated that economic reforms must balance growth with inclusivity. He said expanding the CDF envelope aligns with efforts to ensure that development is felt beyond urban centres, reaching rural districts where access to resources has historically been limited. He added that strengthening grassroots projects supports national unity and equitable progress.
The President reiterated that improving governance standards remains essential to sustaining economic gains. He said stronger institutions and responsible leadership contribute to investor confidence and national stability. According to Hichilema, maintaining a focus on integrity in public administration creates an environment where development programmes deliver measurable outcomes.
Lawmakers responded to the address within a wider discussion about economic direction and fiscal priorities. The President maintained that Zambia’s development path requires both strategic investment and careful management of public funds. He described the coming year as an opportunity to consolidate reforms that strengthen the country’s economic foundation.
Hichilema concluded by reaffirming government commitment to community-driven development. He said expanding the CDF allocation represents a practical step toward empowering citizens and accelerating projects that improve livelihoods across the country.
