Transparency International Zambia (TI-Z) conducted a pilot assessment on the implementation of the 2023 National Decentralisation Policy in 10 districts. The study examined progress in Decentralised Governance, Fiscal Decentralisation, and Policy Coordination to enhance transparency, accountability, and citizen participation at the local level.
The overall performance across the districts averaged 60%, with Livingstone (73%) and Katete (72%) leading, while Petauke (48%) and Kasama (47%) lagged behind. Key successes include the establishment of Ward Development Committees (WDCs) and increased support from cooperating partners for capacity building and financial systems development. However, challenges such as unclear realignment processes, low attendance at WDC meetings, and limited monitoring and evaluation capacity remain.
The report provides detailed findings and recommendations to strengthen decentralisation and improve service delivery.