Local Government Act No. 2 of 2019
| Enacted by | Parliament of Zambia |
|---|---|
| Date enacted | 27 December 2019 |
| Date repealed | – |
| Status | In force |
| Repealed previous legislation | Local Government Act of 1991 |
| Summary | An Act to provide for an integrated local government system in Zambia; to decentralise functions, responsibilities, and services; and to provide for matters connected with or incidental to the foregoing. |
The Local Government Act No. 2 of 2019 is the principal legislation in Zambia that provides for an integrated local government system and decentralisation of functions, responsibilities, and services at all levels of local government. It repealed the earlier Local Government Act of 1991 to enhance democratic participation and improve service delivery.
Overview
The Act governs the establishment, roles, and responsibilities of local government authorities which include city councils, municipal councils, and district councils. It empowers local authorities to undertake over sixty statutory functions relating to:
- urban and regional planning
- infrastructure development and maintenance
- public health and sanitation
- environmental management
- licensing and regulation
- community development and local services
Key Provisions
- Establishment and Constitution of Councils: Defines how councils are formed, including their corporate identity, seal, and composition. - Functions: Lists the functions of councils and allows the Minister to confer additional duties. - Governance: Details council leadership structures such as mayors, deputy mayors, and councillors including election and tenure. - Finance: Prescribes financial management procedures including budgeting, grants, bank accounts, loans, and financial reporting. - Ward Development Committees: Establishes grassroots-level committees to enhance citizen participation in governance. - By-laws: Provides for making, amending, and enforcement of by-laws by local authorities. - Role of Traditional Leadership: Recognises traditional leaders’ roles within local governance. - Accountability: Contains provisions on audits, suspension of councillors, tribunals, and declaration of assets.
Impact and Implementation
The Act promotes local democracy, transparency, and effective service delivery throughout Zambia’s local government system. It is administered by the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development and supported by the Local Government Association of Zambia (LGAZ).
References
- Full text of the Local Government Act No. 2 of 2019 – Parliament of Zambia
- Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development Official Website
- Local Government Association of Zambia (LGAZ)
