By Celestina Tiyankenji Mbewe
President Hakainde Hichilema has congratulated Gift Sialubalo on his appointment as the new Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, emphasizing the critical role the Ministry plays in linking the Central Government to local communities.
In a statement on his official Facebook page,President Hichilema highlighted the Ministry’s responsibility in driving grassroots development, particularly through the enhanced Constituency Development Fund (CDF) and other key initiatives. He called on the newly appointed Minister to take a proactive approach in addressing persistent challenges affecting service delivery at the local level.
“It is imperative that the Ministry proactively tackles persistent challenges hindering the effective and efficient delivery of essential services,” the President stated.
Among the priority areas outlined for Sialubalo is the need for improved waste management and sanitation. President Hichilema urged the Minister to work closely with Local Authorities to implement sustainable garbage collection systems, upgrade sewer infrastructure, and ensure that public spaces remain clean and safe for all Zambians.
By fostering transparency, responsiveness, and capacity-building, the President expressed confidence that Sialubalo’s leadership would enhance public trust and accountability in the sector.