Dowa District Council Urges Mindset Change for Development, Emphasizes Local Responsibility
Dowa District Council calls for mindset change among members to drive development and reduce reliance on external assistance.
DOWA, MALAWI — Dowa District Council's Director of Planning and Development, Mercy Mpakule, emphasised the need for a change in attitude among council members to drive meaningful development in the district, writes Vincent Gunde.
Speaking during an extra-ordinary District Executive Committee [Dec] meeting, Mpakule expressed concern over the lack of visible impact despite the resources received from the government and development partners.
Mpakule highlighted the importance of the district taking responsibility for its own development, stating, "It is the wish of the people of the district to see to it that their district should change and not to continue to be in abstract poverty lacking the basic social services as if partners implementing various interventions have exited their projects."
She urged Dec members to be development-conscious and called for a change in thinking, behaviour, and attitudes to register meaningful developments in the district.
Mpakule emphasised that as Malawi aims to transition to a middle-income economy by 2030, Dowa district must strive for progress, ensuring transparency and accountability in all implemented projects.
Mpakule stressed the importance of Dec members in changing the face of Dowa, stating, "It is Dec members that can change the face of Dowa, not waiting for others to come from outside Dowa district to develop the district."
She appealed to them to change their mindset, as their vision and guidance are crucial for the communities to follow suit.
Expressing disappointment over Malawi's slow progress compared to other countries with similar economies 50 years ago, Mpakule called for a development-conscious approach, saying, "If we are development conscious, our communities will follow our guidance to develop."
During the meeting, Mpakule announced that starting next month, the council will no longer allow junior staff and interns to attend Dec meetings, emphasising that the committee is for mature members and significant partners involved in the district's development.
The call for a change in mindset and a local-driven approach to development reflects the council's determination to overcome poverty and improve the quality of life for the people of the Dowa district.