Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development-Zambia

Website Contact the organization

Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development-Zambia The Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development (MLGRD) is charged with the responsibility of promoting a Decentralized and Good Local Governance System

π—­π—”π— π—•π—œπ—”, π—¦π—”π—¨π——π—œ 𝗔π—₯π—”π—•π—œπ—” π—₯π—˜π—”π—™π—™π—œπ—₯𝗠 𝗦𝗧π—₯π—’π—‘π—š π—•π—œπ—Ÿπ—”π—§π—˜π—₯π—”π—Ÿ π—§π—œπ—˜π—¦The Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development has reaffirmed...
24/09/2026

π—­π—”π— π—•π—œπ—”, π—¦π—”π—¨π——π—œ 𝗔π—₯π—”π—•π—œπ—” π—₯π—˜π—”π—™π—™π—œπ—₯𝗠 𝗦𝗧π—₯π—’π—‘π—š π—•π—œπ—Ÿπ—”π—§π—˜π—₯π—”π—Ÿ π—§π—œπ—˜π—¦

The Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development has reaffirmed Zambia’s commitment to strengthening its longstanding bilateral relations with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Permanent Secretary – Technical Services, Mr. Nicholas Phiri, said the relationship between Zambia and Saudi Arabia, which dates back to 1978, has continued to grow and deliver meaningful cooperation in various sectors.

Mr. Phiri was speaking in Lusaka when he officiated at a reception to commemorate the National Day of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

He conveyed warm congratulations to His Majesty King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, the Government and people of Saudi Arabia, on behalf of the Zambian Government.

Mr. Phiri highlighted cooperation between the two countries in health, agriculture, energy, mining, education, infrastructure and financial cooperation, citing the King Salman bin Abdulaziz Specialized Hospital in Lusaka and support from the Saudi Fund for Development among the key examples of the partnership.

He also recognised Saudi Arabia’s humanitarian assistance to Zambia, including support provided through the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre (KSrelief) during periods of crisis and drought.

Meanwhile, Saudi Ambassador to Zambia, H.E. Ali Saad Alkahtani, reaffirmed the Kingdom’s commitment to strengthening its friendship and cooperation with Zambia.

Ambassador Alkahtani highlighted the strong people to people and government to government ties between the two countries, as well as Saudi Arabia’s development and humanitarian support to Zambia. He further pointed to opportunities for increased cooperation in trade, investment, mining, agriculture and renewable energy.

He welcomed the establishment of the Saudi-Zambian Joint Business Council, describing it as an important platform for strengthening private-sector cooperation and creating new opportunities between the two countries.

The celebration brought together Government officials, members of the diplomatic corps and other distinguished guests, providing an opportunity to celebrate Saudi Arabia’s National Day while reflecting on the enduring friendship and growing cooperation between Zambia and Saudi Arabia.

ZAMBIA AND CHINA CELEBRATE CORDIAL BILATERAL TIES AS EMBASSY FASHION SHOW MARKS 77TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE PEOPLE’S REPUBLI...
23/09/2026

ZAMBIA AND CHINA CELEBRATE CORDIAL BILATERAL TIES AS EMBASSY FASHION SHOW MARKS 77TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINA

The deep-rooted β€œAll-Weather Friendship” between the Republic of Zambia and the People’s Republic of China continues to blossom, marked by escalating economic diplomacy and vibrant cultural exchanges.

This cordial bilateral cooperation was on full display on Tuesday’s evening during a celebratory reception and spectacular fashion show hosted at the Chinese Embassy in Lusaka to commemorate the 77th Anniversary of the Founding of the People's Republic of China.

The event was marked with a unique cultural fashion show blending both Zambian and Chinese traditional outfits, illustrating that the historical relationshipβ€”initially forged by founding leaders Dr. Kenneth Kaunda and Chairman Mao Zedong, is still culturally vibrant.

Among the key dignitaries at the event was Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development Permanent Secretary (Administration) Dr. Gabriel Pollen, who emphasized the mutual benefits of the Zambia-China diplomatic bond.

Speaking on behalf of the Zambian Government, Ministry of Defence Permanent Secretary Mr. Maambo Haamaundu highlighted that as Zambia pursues its Grow Zambia Agenda to transform into a productive, industrialized, and export-oriented economy, China's partnership remains absolute.

In his address, Chinese Ambassador to Zambia, His Excellency-Mr. Han Jing, emphasized that under the strategic and visionary leadership of President Xi Jinping, and President Hakainde Hichilema, the China-Zambia Comprehensive Strategic and Cooperative Partnership has accelerated rapidly, with bilateral trade now growing up to US$7.553 billion.




22/09/2026

𝗖𝗗𝗙 π—Ÿπ—’π—”π—‘ π—˜π— π—£π—’π—ͺπ—˜π—₯𝗦 𝗖𝗛𝗔π—ͺ𝗔𝗠𝗔 π—˜π—‘π—§π—₯π—˜π—£π—₯π—˜π—‘π—˜π—¨π—₯ 𝗧𝗒 π—šπ—₯𝗒π—ͺ 𝗕𝗔π—₯π—•π—˜π—₯𝗦𝗛𝗒𝗣 𝗔𝗑𝗗 𝗖π—₯π—˜π—”π—§π—˜ 𝗝𝗒𝗕𝗦

For Collins Chibuye, a barbershop owner in Chawama, Lusaka, the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) has provided a pathway to business growth and youth empowerment.

In 2023, Chibuye obtained a K100,000 CDF loan which he invested in furniture and equipment to improve his barbershop. The investment has since enhanced the shop’s appearance and services, attracting more customers and boosting his business.

Through the growth of his enterprise, Chibuye has also created employment opportunities for two youths who now work at the barbershop.

He says the CDF loan has strengthened his business and given him renewed confidence in its future.

β€œThe loan has helped me improve my barbershop by enabling me to buy furniture and equipment. We have attracted more customers, and I am confident that the business will continue to grow,” Chibuye says.

Looking ahead, Chibuye hopes to expand his business further, create more employment opportunities and improve his livelihood.

His story highlights how CDF financing can support local entrepreneurship, promote youth employment and contribute to economic empowerment in communities.

π— π—Ÿπ—šπ—₯𝗗 𝗣𝗔𝗬𝗦 𝗙𝗔π—₯π—˜π—ͺπ—˜π—Ÿπ—Ÿ 𝗧𝗒 π—–π—›π—œπ—˜π—™ 𝗛𝗨𝗠𝗔𝗑 π—₯π—˜π—¦π—’π—¨π—₯π—–π—˜ π— π—”π—‘π—”π—šπ—˜π— π—˜π—‘π—§ π—’π—™π—™π—œπ—–π—˜π—₯ 𝗠π—₯. π—¦π—›π—˜π—£π—›π—˜π—₯𝗗 π—–π—›π—œπ—Ÿπ—’π— π—•π—˜Today, staff from the Ministry of Lo...
19/09/2026

π— π—Ÿπ—šπ—₯𝗗 𝗣𝗔𝗬𝗦 𝗙𝗔π—₯π—˜π—ͺπ—˜π—Ÿπ—Ÿ 𝗧𝗒 π—–π—›π—œπ—˜π—™ 𝗛𝗨𝗠𝗔𝗑 π—₯π—˜π—¦π—’π—¨π—₯π—–π—˜ π— π—”π—‘π—”π—šπ—˜π— π—˜π—‘π—§ π—’π—™π—™π—œπ—–π—˜π—₯ 𝗠π—₯. π—¦π—›π—˜π—£π—›π—˜π—₯𝗗 π—–π—›π—œπ—Ÿπ—’π— π—•π—˜

Today, staff from the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development (MLGRD), led by the Permanent Secretary – Administration, Dr. Gabriel Pollen, who was represented by the Director of Human Resource and Administration, Ms. Doreen Matambo, joined the family and friends of the late Mr. Shepherd Chilombe as they laid him to rest.

Mr. Chilombe served as the Ministry’s Chief Human Resource Management Officer, where he made a valuable contribution to the institution and worked closely with members of staff across the Ministry.

The Ministry joined his family, friends, colleagues and the church in celebrating his life, honouring his dedicated service and bidding him farewell.

His passing is a loss to the Ministry and to all those who knew and worked with him.
May his soul rest in eternal peace.

PRESS RELEASE(For immediate release)19th September, 2026PRESIDENT HICHILEMA REAFFIRMS GOVERNMENT’S COMMITMENT TO PRESERV...
19/09/2026

PRESS RELEASE
(For immediate release)
19th September, 2026

PRESIDENT HICHILEMA REAFFIRMS GOVERNMENT’S COMMITMENT TO PRESERVING ZAMBIA’S CULTURAL HERITAGE AND STRENGTHENING COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

PRESIDENT Hakainde Hichilema has underscored that traditional ceremonies remain vital for preserving cultural identity, transmitting ancestral knowledge to the youth, and fostering National peace and unity.

The President said this in a speech read on his behalf by the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development Permanent Secretary (Administration), Dr. Gabriel Pollen during the celebration of the 2026 Chibwela Kumushi traditional ceremony of the Soli people in Mpanshya Chiefdom in Rufunsa District.

President Hichilema noted that the annual Chikwela Kumushi event offers a unique platform for the Soli community to celebrate their heritage while uniting traditional leaders, locals, and stakeholders.

He reaffirmed that the Government values traditional leadership as an essential partner in safeguarding national culture and driving grassroots development.

β€œWe will, therefore, continue to strengthen collaboration with traditional leaders in addressing matters affecting their chiefdoms,” the President stated.

Highlighting ongoing Government interventions in Rufunsa District and the Mpanshya Chiefdom, President Hichilema detailed key milestones across multiple sectors:

Education: The free education policy continues to benefit children, including vulnerable households.

The Home-Grown School Feeding Programme supports 86 schools and 33,011 learners in the district, boosting school attendance and participation.

Girl Child Support: The Keeping Girls in School Programme actively assists 79 girls in Rufunsa District.

Agriculture: Preparations for the 2026–2027 farming season are underway, with 12,142 small-scale farmers targeted to receive continued agricultural support.

Chieftainess Mpanshya implored all Zambians to cherish and protect the Nation's diverse ethnic traditions as a cornerstone for a cohesive and prosperous society.

Issued by:
(Original copy signed)

The Public Relations Unit
MINISTRY OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT





Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development-Director of Human Resource and Administration, Ms. Doreen Matambo, to...
17/09/2026

Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development-Director of Human Resource and Administration, Ms. Doreen Matambo, today led some members of Staff from the Ministry in visiting the funeral house of the late Mr Shepherd Chilombe, in Kafue District.

Mr Chilombe, who passed away on Tuesday, was the Chief Human Resource Management Officer at the Ministry, and will be put to rest on 19th September, 2026.

The Director delivered heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family on behalf of the Ministry. She comforted the Widow and the family at large, urging them to find strength during this difficult period. A word of comfort from the Bible was also shared by Director-Internal Audit Mr Larry Mulomba.

PRESS RELEASE(For immediate release)16th September, 2026GOVERNMENT STRENGTHENS EMERGENCY RESPONSE AND PRE-HOSPITAL CARE ...
16/09/2026

PRESS RELEASE
(For immediate release)
16th September, 2026

GOVERNMENT STRENGTHENS EMERGENCY RESPONSE AND PRE-HOSPITAL CARE THROUGH NEW INTERNATIONAL PARTNERSHIPS

THE Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development (MLGRD) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Japan International Paramedical Rescue Technical Cooperation Corps, and the Community Emergency Rescue Services.

The MoU marks a vital step in boosting the National Emergency Response Coordination, frontline rescue capabilities, and pre-hospital medical care across Zambian communities. This strategic partnership also marks a major milestone in strengthening collaboration to enhance emergency response, and trauma initial care.

MLGRD Permanent Secretary (Technical Services) Mr. Nicholas Phiri signed the MoU on behalf of the Zambian Government, while Japan International Paramedical Rescue Technical Cooperation Corps-Director Mr. Masaru Harima, and Community Emergency Rescue Services-Director General Mr. Robbre Kenani signed for their Institution, respectively.

Speaking during the signing ceremony in Lusaka today, Mr Phiri highlighted the critical role the Ministry plays in supporting Local Authorities to deliver essential public services, particularly fire and rescue operations in communities.

The Permanent Secretary underscored that effective coordination and collaboration among emergency responders and relevant institutions are essential to ensuring a timely, well-coordinated, and effective response when lives are at risk.

β€œAs Zambian communities grow and the demand for emergency services rises, the Government is prioritizing the preparedness of Local Authorities and frontline responders,” Mr Phiri stated.

He said the MoU will therefore directly address some of the needs through continuous capacity-building and technical cooperation programmes specifically tailored for firefighters, and medical responders involved in rescue activities.

The Permanent Secretary further stated that the Government welcomes international cooperation on capacity building on emergency responses as a vital step toward equipping Zambian responders with modern skills, knowledge, and competencies to save lives and protect communities.

Japan International Paramedical Rescue Technical Cooperation Corps-Director Mr. Masaru Harima stated that the signed MoU reinforces long-standing technical cooperation between Japanese rescue experts and Zambian local emergency groups, including community-based first responders.

Mr Harima said the MoU will accelerate efforts to advance paramedic training, specialized fire and accident response in Zambia, as well as provide efficient protocols to minimize improve patient survival outcomes.

Issued by:
(Original copy signed)

Public Relations Unit
MINISTRY OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT




16/09/2026

Follow livestream
The signing ceremony of two Memoranda of Understanding between the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development, Japan International Paramedical Rescue Technical Cooperation and the Community Emergency Rescue Services, on the provision of emergency responses in communities.

Let us know where you are watching us from.

PRESS RELEASE(For immediate release)15th September, 2026GOVERNMENT AND SGC INVESTMENTS LLC OF THE UNITED ARAB EMIRATES S...
15/09/2026

PRESS RELEASE
(For immediate release)
15th September, 2026

GOVERNMENT AND SGC INVESTMENTS LLC OF THE UNITED ARAB EMIRATES SIGN MOU TO MOBILISE INVESTMENT IN RENEWABLE PROJECTS IN ALL 116 LOCAL AUTHORITIES

THE Government has signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with SGC Limited, a prominent company from the United Arab Emirates (UAE), aimed at unlocking Zambia’s untapped investment opportunities across the energy sector.

The MoU pioneers a decentralised approach to national development by directly bringing on board ALL 116 Local Authorities as core partners in the renewable energy investment to accelerate rural development.

Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development Permanent Secretary (Administration) Dr. Gabriel Pollen signed the MoU on behalf of the Zambian Government, while SCG LLC Chief Executive Officer Mr. Imran Saeed signed for his Company.

Speaking during the signing ceremony in Lusaka today, Dr Pollen highlighted that the objectives of the MoU will be SGC Limited creating collaborations with all Local Authorities in Zambia for possible investment in renewable energy to accelerate sustainable development, and strengthen national energy security.

Dr. Pollen underscored that affordable energy is the bedrock of economic transformation, particularly that energy supports every critical pillar of the Zambian economy, including industry, agriculture, mining, manufacturing, commerce, and households.

He reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to maintaining an enabling environment for energy sector investments, stating that the primary focus will be on projects that directly contribute to increased generation capacity, a diversified energy mix, improved energy security, and long-term, sustainable economic growth.

β€œThis partnership represents a profound vote of confidence in Zambia’s economic trajectory and investment climate,” Dr Pollen stated.

As the Ministry responsible for localised and rural growth, Dr Pollen stated that Local Authorities play a critical role in facilitating investment because the vast majority of energy projects are implemented directly within communities under local jurisdiction.

Speaking at the same occasion, Mr Saeed highlighted that his Company views Zambia as a strategic investment destination, therefore the MoU will develop into a broader platform to bring about meaningful investment and long-term value, creating economic opportunities and employment for communities.

Issued by:
(Original copy signed)

Chila Namaiko (Mr)
Public Relations Officer
MINISTRY OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT




Address

Corner Of Pandit Nethru/un Road Longares P. O Box 50072
Lusaka
50027

Opening Hours

Monday 08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday 08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday 08:00 - 17:00
Thursday 08:00 - 17:00
Friday 08:00 - 17:00

Website

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development-Zambia posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The Organization

Send a message to Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development-Zambia:

Shortcuts

Share

Category