The Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development has strengthened its support to traditional leadership in Eastern Province by handing over 56 motorbikes, one to each of the chiefs in the region. The handover took place at the conclusion of the Provincial Council of Chiefs, an event hosted by the Ministry that saw 42 out of the 56 chiefs in Eastern Province in attendance.
Permanent Secretary Nicholas Phiri presided over the ceremony and reiterated the government’s commitment to facilitating the work of traditional leaders. He explained that the motorbikes were designated for the chiefs’ retainers, who act as official messengers. Phiri acknowledged the persistent transport challenges faced by the chiefs in rural areas and assured them that government remains committed to improving their mobility to enhance community service delivery.
“Our intention with this gesture is to ease the mobility constraints that have long hindered effective communication between traditional leadership and local communities,” said Phiri. “The motorbikes will enable the chiefs’ retainers to carry out their duties more efficiently, supporting the chiefs in their roles as custodians of tradition and key partners in local governance.”
Phiri also commended Eastern Province for its exceptional performance in the utilisation of the Constituency Development Fund (CDF). According to Phiri, Eastern Province currently boasts the highest CDF utilisation rate in the country at 84 percent. He praised local authorities and community leaders for their effective management of the fund, which is aimed at fostering grassroots development.
“The high CDF utilisation rate in Eastern Province is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the leadership at all levels. It demonstrates how well-placed resources can translate into tangible development outcomes for our people,” Phiri said.
The Provincial Council of Chiefs provided a valuable platform for dialogue between traditional leaders and government representatives. Issues discussed included local development initiatives, community governance, and the preservation of cultural heritage.
By equipping the chiefs’ retainers with motorbikes, the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development is taking a practical step towards strengthening the operational capacity of traditional leadership in Eastern Province. The initiative underscores the government’s recognition of the vital role that chiefs play in promoting social cohesion, cultural preservation, and sustainable local development.