Nsanje Council approves K2bn for Masaf IV

Nsanje District Council has approved a K2 billion budget for Local Development Fund (LDF) projects to be implemented under Malawi Social Action Fund (Masaf) IV.

Nsanje Central member of Parliament (MP) Francis Kasaila, who is also Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, said approving the budget would improve people’s livelihoods through the public works programmes (PWPs).

He said: “If LDF funds the district, it will be huge money that will transform the lives of people in the communities, but also develop the district. The secretariat should ensure transparency and accountability in the projects.”

Senior Chief Malemia asked the council to involve all stakeholders in the district if the projects’ implementation is to succeed.

“Now that we have approved the Nsanje District Masaf IV safety net plan and budget, let me advise the secretariat to involve all stakeholders so that we achieve more,” he said.

Nsanje District Council acting director of planning and development Kennedy Adamson described the budget  approval as a milestone, adding that it demonstrates the council’s commitment to alleviate poverty.

He said the budget will be presented to LDF next week.

“The project aims at increasing productive assets through community demand-driven public works programmes, reducing shocks and vulnerability among poor households through livelihood support,” said Adamson.n