A fact-finding mission from the National Local Government Finance Committee (NLGFC) has carried out an investigation into reports of funds mismanagement under the 2022/2023 Governance to Enable Service Delivery (GESD) at Thyolo district council. 

Some three weeks ago, reports were rife that some district council officials misappropriated K39 million for the administration of ten projects and paid upfront K24.8 million to a contractor who abandoned Mikate health post project. 

 

NLGFC chief executive officer, Dr. Kondwani Santhe has confirmed to Zodiak Online on Tuesday that a three-day probe was to validate the issues and the outcome is expected to be out by Friday next week, as at now, the council has been furnished with the findings to respond.

 

"So indeed we have gathered information on some of these issues and have sent back the report the district commissioner to comment on our findings so that we can conclude it, make recommendations or take the necessary actions," he said. 

 

Dr. Santhe said necessary measures will be taken on the council and public officers if they would be found wanting, while ensuring that the K720 million projects do not suffer in the district. 

 

He added: "even if the contractor abandons the project while paid, there are regulations; we report to the National Construction Industry Council (NCIC)."

 

Meanwhile, Thyolo Civil Society Organisations Chairperson, Willard Mwambo has commended government for acting with speed on the matter and believes truth will come out to ensure that communities benefit from the social services through the projects. 

 

"They have come in right time. Their coming will indeed unearth issues that are affecting development in the district. As we all are aware that projects with from the government or non government organisations are meant for the local communities and vulnerable people," Mwambo said. 

 

World Bank committed about K720 million towards the construction of Mikate Health Post, Namutuni Health Post, Chimaliro GFWS, Sambani Primary School, Mbawera Primary School, Kuweluza, Nkalozwa and Chigunda GFWS, Khongono Irrigation Scheme, Mbendera Primary School, Mankhamba 1 Primary School and Mtambanyama Market Centre.