By Yamikani Yapuwa
The World Bank has expressed satisfaction with the progress of the Governance to Enable Service Delivery (GESD) projects being implemented in Thyolo and Mulanje districts, describing them as largely on course and of good quality.
Speaking after the missions field visit on Monday, GESD Project Coordinator, Charles Chunga, said the World Bank conducts such missions annually to assess progress, challenges, and lessons as the project nears completion.
He said although some councils experienced delays in funding and supervision, Thyolo District Council remains one of the best-performing councils in both implementation and quality of works.
“Thyolo has performed very well. The projects are of good quality, implemented by competent contractors, and all previous cycle projects have been completed. The council has already submitted its annual investment plan for the final cycle,” he said.Chunga added that the GESD project has strengthened the capacity of local councils in project identification, financial management, and contract administration.
“Councils are now able to identify projects originating from the communities, and unlike in the past, most of the GESD projects are completed, functional, and in use.
Financial management has also improved, with councils now receiving unqualified audit opinions,” he explained.
Thyolo District Commissioner, Hudson Kuphanga, said the World Bank team was impressed with infrastructure such as school and market facilities.
” They visited our school at Thyolo Boma Primary and the Mtambanyama Market, where they advised us to complete paving works. They also encouraged us to finalise all construction works at Thyolo Boma Primary School,” said Kuphanga.
He said the district plans to complete all remaining projects under the fourth GESD cycle by March 2026, adding that procurement processes are already underway.
Kuphanga, however, expressed concern over delays in the release of funds, which he said sometimes affect project timelines.“The money comes in tranches, and accessing it takes time, yet we have contractors waiting for payment. We have requested the World Bank to consider releasing funds in full to enhance efficiency,” he said.
The District Commissioner commended the Bank for its continued support, noting that GESD has transformed service delivery and strengthened accountability in local councils.
The GESD programme has changed the face of councils by improving infrastructure quality, governance, and community participation, said Kuphanga.
The GESD project, implemented in all councils across Malawi, aims to strengthen institutional capacity, promote good governance, and enhance local development planning and fiscal management.
