Local Government Act of 1991
| Enacted by | Parliament of Zambia |
|---|---|
| Date enacted | 6 September 1991 |
| Date repealed | Repealed by Local Government Act No. 2 of 2019 |
| Status | Repealed |
| Repealed by | Local Government Act No. 2 of 2019 |
| Summary | An Act to provide for an integrated three-tier local administration system; to define the functions of local authorities; to repeal the Local Administration Act and certain related laws; and to provide for matters connected with or incidental to the foregoing. |
The Local Government Act of 1991 (Chapter 281 of the Laws of Zambia) was the principal legislative framework governing local government in Zambia until its repeal and replacement by the Local Government Act No. 2 of 2019. The Act established an integrated three-tier local administration system composed of city councils, municipal councils, and district councils.
Overview
The Act provided the legal basis for the constitution, functions, and operations of local authorities. It defined the roles and responsibilities of local councils, including urban planning, infrastructure maintenance, public health, sanitation, by-laws enforcement, market regulation, and community services.
Structure and Governance
- Local authorities were established with corporate status, operating within defined areas.
- Councils consisted of elected councillors, led by mayors or chairpersons.
- Provisions governed council proceedings, committees, meetings, and decision-making.
- The Act outlined the appointment and functions of local government administrators and other officers.
Finance and Administration
- Financial management provisions included budgeting, grants from central government, and revenue collection.
- Authorities could borrow, impose fees, and manage their finances subject to government oversight.
Role of Traditional Leadership
The Act recognized the role of traditional leaders within local governance structures, enabling their participation in democratic governance at the local level.
Repeal and Legacy
The Local Government Act of 1991 was repealed in 2019 to modernize and expand local governance frameworks in Zambia with greater emphasis on decentralization, citizen participation, and service delivery.
References
- Full text of the Local Government Act of 1991
- Zambia Parliament archives
- Local Government Association of Zambia (LGAZ)
