Nundwe calls for hard work, committed civil service

—-Newly appointed Muchinga Province Permanent Secretary (PS), Bright Nundwe, says he expects a civil service that is committed to hard work, professional and devoid of politics and tribalism.

 

Speaking during his inaugural meeting with provincial heads of government departments and ministries in Chinsali, Mr Nundwe noted that the province is in the limelight being newly-created and will stand as a litmus test in implementing government-funded capital projects.

 

He assured the officers that the erratic funding to all capital projects that were initiated by late President, Michael Sata’s administration, will be a thing of the past, adding that he will soon be meeting the Secretary to the Treasury so that resources can be released to complete the projects.

 

Mr Nundwe said President Edgar Lungu is very concerned that capital projects aimed at uplifting living standards of people have stalled because of alleged inadequate funding that has seen many contractors, especially Zambians, abandoning works.

 

The PS noted that private investment can only come in once socio-economic infrastructure, such as good roads, health and education amenities are constructed in the area.

 

He said government operations everywhere are standardised and expects officers to adhere to laid-down regulations so that there is harmony when providing service to the people.

 

Mr Nunwde said he will soon study last year’s auditor general’s report to ensure that financial extravagancies are not entertained as they border on criminality which is against the law.

 

He warned that he will not tolerate government officers flouting regulations.

 

The PS said he has taken note of concerns that the province is operating at half capacity of 320 against the required over 600 staff establishment to run government operations.

 

And the new PS was taken on tour of duty to inspect construction of projects in the district.

 

Among the projects inspected were the six storey provincial administration block, ministers and PS’s housees and the new government housing complex.

 

Mr Nundwe expressed happiness at the progress and the workmanship of the projects visited.