Namibia, Zambia foster closer bonds

Chairperson of the National Council Lukas Sinimbo Muha says Namibia is exploring the possibility of entering into a cooperation agreement with the Zambian parliament to gain insights into implementing the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) law.Muha made these remarks during a courtesy visit from the committee on privileges and absences of the parliament of Zambia last week.The Zambian delegation is in Namibia on a study visit to exchange experiences, practices, and insights regarding the functioning of both Parliamentary Houses."This visit provides a valuable opportunity for us to exchange ideas, experiences and strategies to enhance the effectiveness of our respective parliamentary systems. We are prepared to learn from you," Muha told the delegation.Muha added: "I should inform you that we are proud to announce that, after learning from your parliamentary system about the constituency development fund and its implementation in your country, we have started to draft legislation. This legislation has already been tabled in the Assembly, and we hope it will reach the National Council for review and potentially be passed into law by the end of this year. This demonstrates how your country contributes to the operation of Namibia's parliament and the entire nation.""Our countries are united by common goals of advancing democratic values, promoting good governance, and ensuring the welfare of our citizens," Muha said on Tuesday."As neighbours, we are inspired by each other, often without explicitly informing each other," Muha saidSlow paceUrban and rural development minister Erastus Uutoni tabled the much-anticipated Regional and Constituency Development Fund Bill earlier this year.The bill has been in the works for a decade and aims to fast-track development activities at regional and constituency levels while addressing the marginalisation of some constituencies in terms of project funding.First tabled in February 2014, the bill has faced criticism from constituency councillors for the slow pace of its progress.Uutoni said the fund will serve as an additional financial support mechanism from the state, which will boost development at the regional and constituency levels.He said the fund "is a pro-decentralisation initiative that provides additional funding from central government to the regional and constituency levels to boost community-based small-scale development projects that are intended to address particular development needs."nikanor@erongo.com.na

Namibia, Zambia foster closer bonds

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Namibian Sun 2026-07-27

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Namibia, Zambia foster closer bonds

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Namibian Sun 2026-07-27

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