Nkhotakota District
Information Officer Wongani Mkandawire has urged journalists to verify facts
and maintain professionalism when reporting on the Reformed Constituency
Development Fund (CDF).
Mkandawire made the remarks on Wednesday during a training session
for Nkhotakota-based journalists on the new CDF guidelines and projects.
He said the council will continue engaging journalists at every
stage of CDF implementation to ensure they have access to accurate information
and enable the public to be fully informed about development projects.
Wongani Mkandawire, Nkhotakota district council Information officer, during an interview.
“Journalists play a fundamental role in tracking and reporting
factual information about development projects, helping citizens understand how
such projects are being implemented,” said
He added that the media will serve as a bridge between the council
and communities by providing information about CDF projects, as citizens are
keen to understand how the funds will promote transparency and deliver benefits
to communities.
“We believe the media will act as a bridge between the council and
communities regarding CDF projects because every citizen is eagerly waiting for
transparency and the benefits that will come from these projects,” said
Mkandawire.
One of the participants, Damiano Thengo of Nkhotakota Community
Radio, commended the council for organizing the training, saying journalists
are now better equipped to report responsibly on CDF projects.
Thengo said having detailed information is essential for journalists
as it enables them to effectively communicate development issues to the public.
Damiyano, a reporter from Nkhotakota Community Radio Station who participated during the meeting.
He added that the training has empowered journalists to provide
accurate information and give communities detailed updates about CDF projects
in the district.
“We need stronger collaboration with different stakeholders to
ensure that we work smoothly and have access to adequate information about
various development programs in the district,”
“Moving forward, we will work hand in hand with officials to support
the acceleration of development in the district,” he added.
Nkhotakota
District is expected to receive K25 billion for its five constituencies, with
each constituency allocated K5 billion during the 2026–2027 financial year.
