By Robert Nayeja
Nsanje, Mana: Chiefs from Nsanje have committed to serve their subjects professionally as they will conduct their work diligently, following a two days workshop on good governance organized by Nsanje district council in Mulanje.
Speaking in an interview with Mana on Saturday at the end of the training, Senior Chief Mlolo confessed that some chiefs act out of ignorance on how they are supposed to work hence the need for councils to train them on various programs.
Mlolo said the meeting was an eye opener to the chiefs on topics like good governance and corruption.
“We have learnt today that government issued a ban on creation of more villages and promotion of junior chief’s way back, but we were busy promoting and establishing more villages in our areas simply because we didn’t know anything about the ban.
“We were not even aware that some of our activities are part and parcel of corruption but this training has enlighten us on how to deal with such issues and save our people diligently,” she added.
She said the meeting has also helped them to learn that as chiefs they are supposed to remain in a corrupt free zone.
“As chiefs there are many qualities that we need to have for us to serve people professionally.
“Furthermore, we are trusted with so many resources. So if we are corrupt then we are killing our community,” she added.
Traditional Authority Chimombo echoed Mlolo statements saying for a long period chiefs in the district have been exercising their powers without proper guidance hence the training will help improve their service delivery.
“We have learnt issues to do with the new land law, human management and how some simple issues can be dealt with without going to the District Commissioners office.
“Most of the times we accuse the secretariat on issues of financial mismanagement but this training has enlightened us how funds are disbursed at the district council and how the council operates,” said Chimombo.
Chimombo pledged that he will convene a meeting with his subject and share with them the knowledge acquired during the workshop.
Council Chairperson Rose Makiyi said the meeting will strengthen the working relationship between councilors and chiefs.
“The meeting has decisively enlightened us on roles of the chiefs in development which will cement the working relationship with councillors and promote development at the very end. This will help the chiefs to promote the agenda of the council,” she added.
Nsanje District Commissioner Dr Medson Matchaya said the training was organized to promote the agenda of the council that requires a productive team.
“My expectation is to see fewer problems, an efficient team, and a united team which can hold office bearers accountable where necessary and the chiefs themselves should be accountable,” he said.