The Mchinji District Council says
it is considering introducing new revenue collection measures targeting owners
of sports grounds and contractors awarded development projects aimed at
increasing the council's locally generated revenue and strengthening its
financial base.
The Chairperson of the Council's
Finance Committee, who is also the councilor for Boma Ward, Dan Kachikoti, made
the remarks during a full council meeting where he presented the finance
committee's report and proposed measures to improve the council's financial
performance.
"This proposal of requiring
sports ground owners and contractors to pay council fees is intended to enhance
revenue generation and promote financial self-reliance, enabling the council to
fund various development activities,” said Kachikoti.
He said the proposal wants owners
of sports grounds to pay an annual levy of K1 million, while contractors would
pay fees according to their respective categories.
“In return, contractors would
receive official certificates authorizing them to operate while also contributing
to the council's revenue,” he said.
Mchinji District Council
Chairperson Kennedy Peter Chipanga welcomed the proposal, saying it would help
the council raise more local revenue and strengthen cooperation between the
council and stakeholders involved in development projects.
"This initiative is not only
about raising money but also about promoting ownership and accountability for
development projects across the district.
“The fees paid by contractors would
also help finance the rehabilitation of areas damaged during construction once
projects are completed," Said Chipanga.
Meanwhile, Vice Chairperson of
the Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) Davis Damson, also expressed support for
the proposal, saying it would help the council become more financially
independent instead of relying solely on government funding for development
programs.
"We commend the move as it is
timely as councils prepare for greater financial self-reliance, particularly if
government funding through the District Development Fund is reduced or
discontinued in the future," said Damson.
