By Burnett Munthali
Minister of Lands, Deus Gumba, has called on district commissioners (DCs) and chief executive officers (CEOs) of local councils to fully cooperate with the Ministry’s efforts to implement the land reform program, cautioning them against hindering progress.
Speaking on Wednesday in Salima during a meeting aimed at sensitizing DCs and CEOs on new land governance laws, Gumba emphasized the importance of collaboration in the ongoing devolution of land administration functions to local councils.
“The Ministry of Lands, in partnership with the Ministry of Local Government, Unity, and Culture, is committed to improving land administration services and bringing them closer to the people. We cannot allow any disruptions that would frustrate these efforts,” said Gumba.
The meeting served to update local council leaders on the progress of the devolution program, which aims to ensure that land services are efficiently managed at the district level.
Richard Hara, Secretary for Local Government, Unity, and Culture, stressed the importance of district commissioners being fully informed about the application of the new land governance laws. He noted that their understanding and active participation are crucial for the success of the reforms.
Hara also urged the DCs to take their responsibilities seriously and ensure that the new land laws are implemented effectively in their districts, fostering better land governance and improved service delivery to communities.
