President Hakainde Hichilema has shared that the government is planning to increase the allowances for Chiefs and their retainers in the next budget.
He also encouraged traditional leaders across the nation to take on the role of natural overseers of the Constituency Development Fund (CDF).
Meanwhile, Chief Kalonga Gawa Undi has proposed that the government should think about reviewing the subsidies given to Chiefs and consider providing them with gratuity after three to five years of service.
While addressing the crowd in Katete on Saturday during the 2025 Kulamba traditional ceremony of the Chewa people from Zambia, Malawi, and Mozambique, President Hichilema reiterated the commitment to raise the allowances for Chiefs and their retainers.
“I’ve also heard your requests about the motorbikes for the retainers. As you know, Kalonga Gawa Undi, this issue goes beyond just the motorbikes. It also includes housing for the retainers. We’re building homes for the Chiefs’ retainers so they can serve their Chiefs more effectively. We’re also working on better housing for the Chiefs, along with water and other amenities as we collaborate. I’m excited to announce that in the upcoming budget, we will be increasing the allowances for both retainers and Chiefs. I’m thrilled to share this news because we’ve listened to your concerns, and I believe it’s the right step forward,” he said.
President Hichilema stressed that the government will continue with the decentralization policy, ensuring that more responsibilities are handed over to local authorities.
“We will stick to the decentralization policy. More responsibilities will be given to local authorities so they can serve the people better, as they are closer to the communities and understand their needs. I want to emphasize that our Constituency Development Fund is crucial in this process.”
