Local Government Act of Zambia
| Local Government Act of Zambia | |
|---|---|
| Citation | Act No. 2 of 2019 (latest major revision) |
| Enacted by | Parliament of Zambia |
| Assented to | 2019 |
| Status: Current legislation | |
The Local Government Act of Zambia is the principal legislation that establishes the framework for local government administration in Zambia. The Act provides for a three-tier system of local authorities, defines their functions, and outlines governance and administrative procedures aimed at promoting decentralization, accountability, and democratic participation.
History
The original Local Government Act was enacted in 1991, repealing earlier statutes such as the Local Administration Act, with the objective of consolidating local government functions.
Major reforms were later introduced through the Local Government Act No. 2 of 2019, which modernized governance structures and enhanced service delivery mandates. The Local Government (Amendment) Act No. 28 of 2023, effective January 2024, further refined administrative processes and strengthened the role of local authorities in Zambia’s decentralization agenda.
Structure of Local Government
The Act establishes a three-tier system of local authorities, comprising:
- District Councils – responsible for predominantly rural areas.
- Municipal Councils – overseeing medium-sized urban areas.
- City Councils – governing large urban centres and cities.
Each council is constituted as a corporate body with its own legal personality, jurisdiction, and defined functions.
Functions and Powers
Under the Act, local authorities are mandated to:
- Manage public health and sanitation.
- Develop and maintain infrastructure and community facilities.
- Promote local economic development initiatives.
- Enact by-laws and collect fees and levies.
The Act further empowers the Minister of Local Government to assign additional functions to councils and to issue regulations where necessary.
Governance and Administration
Local councils consist of elected councillors, with executive leadership vested in mayors (for city and municipal councils) or chairpersons (for district councils).
The Act stipulates procedures for council meetings, decision-making processes, and mandates mechanisms for public participation in local governance. It also integrates traditional leaders into the local governance framework, recognising their role in community representation.
Significance
The Local Government Act serves as a cornerstone of Zambia’s decentralisation policy. It strengthens grassroots democracy, enhances public service delivery, and facilitates citizen engagement in governance and development planning.
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