By Jones Gadama
Gerald Kazembe, Member of Parliament for Monkey Bay, has launched a landmark package of 10 Constituency Development Fund projects for 2026, hailing President Arthur Peter Mutharika and the DPP-led Government for introducing what he called “the best CDF program Malawi has ever had.”
Kazembe through his official communication channel said the new projects are a direct result of the visionary reforms championed by President Mutharika and implemented through the Ministry of Local Government and rural development, under line Minister Dr. Ben Phiri.
He noted that the 2026 CDF Guidelines have transformed CDF from a rushed disbursement fund into a disciplined development tool focused on planning, quality and accountability.
The approved projects for Monkey Bay include Cape Maclear Health Center, Kanyenga Health Center, Mtakataka Turnoff Health Center, Kasankha Health Center, Mwalembe Community Day Secondary School, Masasa Primary School classroom blocks, Mkope Police Houses, gravelling of Kasankha Road and Mkope Road, and the procurement of a 300-litre autoclave plus renovations at Monkey Bay Hospital.
Kazembe said his office has strictly followed the new guidelines. “Under President Mutharika’s leadership, CDF money is no longer released automatically. Every project must have full technical designs, Bills of Quantities, and completed procurement before funding is approved. We in Monkey Bay have adhered to every step, and that is why our projects have been cleared,” he said.
He praised the DPP government for increasing CDF allocations while also strengthening financial management systems.
“Bigger funding means bigger responsibility. Dr. Ben Phiri and the ministry have ensured we now prioritize quality over speed. This is how we avoid abandoned projects and give taxpayers value for money,” Kazembe added.
Political analysts say the reforms reflect President Mutharika’s commitment to prudent management of public resources.
“The Mutharika administration understood that development must be planned before a single kwacha is spent,” said one commentator, adding that ,“This philosophy is why communities are now seeing properly designed clinics, schools and roads instead of white elephant projects.”
Social commentators also commended Kazembe for transparency.
“By launching these projects openly and sticking to the guidelines, Kazembe has shown that CDF can truly be people’s business,” said a local civic leader.
For residents of Monkey Bay, the launch signals real change. From improved health services to better classrooms and motorable roads, the projects are expected to uplift livelihoods and reduce service delivery gaps.
Kazembe concluded that under Mutharika’s DPP, CDF has been reformed into a model of accountable development, and he pledged to continue working with government to ensure every project is completed to standard.
