Local Government and Rural Development Minister Gift Sialubalo has strongly dismissed claims that the Constituency Development Fund is a hoax, saying anyone who believes so would appear irrational. He said CDF projects are easy to find because most are located close to communities they serve.
Sialubalo stated that the visibility of CDF projects across the country proves the fund is real and impactful. He said it does not take much effort to locate a project because they are often just a short distance away from residential areas, schools and health facilities.
The Minister urged citizens to embrace the CDF agenda, noting that the programme is designed to outlive the current UPND administration. He emphasized that CDF is a national development tool meant to empower communities over the long term, regardless of which party is in government.
Speaking after touring several CDF projects in Kabwe Central constituency, Sialubalo commended the area for using the funds prudently. He said Kabwe Central stood out because projects were visible and well implemented, making it unnecessary to search extensively to see how the funds were being used.
He noted that in every constituency, people should be able to point to nearby infrastructure funded through CDF. These include schools, clinics, skills centres and small scale community projects that directly improve daily life.
Sialubalo reaffirmed government’s commitment to strengthening CDF implementation and accountability. He said the fund remains a key driver of decentralised development and community empowerment.
The Minister called on citizens to take ownership of CDF projects and protect them. He stressed that the success of the programme depends on public support, transparency and active participation at community level.