By Jones Gadama
The Government of Malawi has released *K85,502,922,291* to 30 of the 36 Local Councils for projects under the Constituency Development Fund, the Ministry of Finance, Economic Planning and Decentralisation announced in September 2026.
According to a press statement signed by Rev. Moses Chimphehero, Secretary for Local Government and Rural Development, and Peterson Ponderani, Principal Secretary for Decentralisation, the funds are advance payments to contractors who have been awarded contracts.
The councils involved have completed procurement and identified contractors to begin work at project sites.
The September disbursement also includes *K5,487,075,758* for Project Management Costs and *K2,862,500,000* for Sports Development and Creative Arts.
In August 2026, government released *K17,175,000,000* to Local Councils for School Bursaries under CDF. In April, it released *K15,000,000,000* for Youth and Women Loans.
Between May and August 2026, a further *K18,840,469,697* was released for CDF projects and programmes.
President Professor Peter Mutharika said the release of CDF resources reflects his administration’s commitment to decentralisation and taking development to communities.
Since returning to office, the President has prioritised timely funding of local development projects as part of efforts to improve service delivery at constituency level.
The Ministry of Local Government, led by *Dr. Ben Malunga Phiri*, has been coordinating with councils to ensure procurement processes are completed and projects are implemented in line with CDF guidelines.
The Ministry says the reforms introduced under the current administration are aimed at improving accountability and ensuring funds reach intended beneficiaries without delay.
Treasury stated that the disbursements are being made in accordance with CDF guidelines to support smooth implementation and promote prudent financial management.
The CDF is expected to fund infrastructure such as roads, bridges, classrooms, health posts, and other community projects identified by constituents and approved through council processes.
With contractors now expected to mobilize to sites, the funding is set to accelerate development activities in the 30 councils that have met the requirements.
The remaining 6 councils are expected to complete their processes to access the funds.
Government maintains that consistent and timely release of CDF resources will remain a key part of its development agenda as it works to deliver on campaign commitments to Malawians.
