Petauke Town Council today held its final Full Council Meeting ahead of the General Elections scheduled for 13 August 2026, marking an important moment in the district’s governance calendar.
Speaking during the official opening of the meeting, the Council Chairperson, Edward Banda, expressed gratitude to the Royal Highnesses, the Council Chaplain, management, and all stakeholders for their continued support over the past five years. Mr Banda described 2026 as a crucial year for reflection and accountability, noting that political leaders will be assessed based on their performance and contributions to the development of the district.
The Chairperson highlighted that the past five years have seen notable progress in infrastructure and service delivery, largely supported by the Constituency Development Fund and the Zambia Devolution Support Programme.
“Our work is not yet complete. Let us continue to advance the Government’s development agenda,” said the Chairperson.
During the meeting, the Council considered a report from the Health, Community Development and Social Services Committee. Concerns were raised about the commencement of the Presidential Constituency Energy Initiative. The Council Secretary informed members that the project is currently under procurement at the Ministry. This followed a question from the Nyika Ward Councillor.
In his contribution, the councillor raised concerns about the funding structure of the project, noting that it draws from two sources: 4.1 million kwacha from the loans component and 5.9 million kwacha from community project allocations. In response, the Committee Chairperson, Mr Francis Mwanza, explained that budget adjustments had been made to accommodate both the energy initiative and other community projects.
Mr Mwanza further confirmed that the Council had already aligned various projects funded under the Constituency Development Fund to support the implementation of the initiative.
The Council also received the Council Secretary’s report where Mr Kelvin Banda reported on key development initiatives. Among them was the proposed construction of a modern bus station at Kawere Plots under the 2024 Zambia Devolution Support Programme funding. The Planning Department has completed a preliminary assessment, identifying Kawere as a strategic site aimed at promoting growth in a planned area that is also expected to host facilities such as a shopping mall.
In addition, the Council was presented with a proposed Asset Maintenance Plan aimed at improving the management and upkeep of Council assets. The plan covers buildings, vehicles, machinery, office equipment, and infrastructure. It is expected to enhance service delivery, extend the lifespan of assets, and promote efficient use of public resources through structured maintenance systems.
Council members were also informed that the rehabilitation of eight rooms at Nyika Motel has been successfully completed, and the facilities are now ready for use.
The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment from Council members to sustain development efforts in the district.
