A CALL TO OPTIMIZE THE CONSTITUENCY DEVELOPMENT FUND (CDF) MANAGEMENT

The Constituency Development Fund (CDF) is a transformative force that promises to uplift the lives of many people out of poverty, particularly those at the lower end of the socioeconomic spectrum. This is because it is remedying the problems of access to basic services, education and employment opportunities which all serve to perpetuate poverty.

As a legacy of the colonialism, significant development has been concentrating in cities and urban areas along the railway line stretching from Livingstone through Lusaka to the Copperbelt. Conversely, rural areas have witnessed limited participation in economic advancement. To address this disparity, successive governments have prioritized devolution as a fundamental aspect of their governance strategy. The objective is to cater to the specific needs and priorities of local communities by allocating funds for infrastructure development, social services, education, healthcare, water and sanitation, agriculture, and various other sectors. This is where CDF becomes pivotal as the aim of this fund is to promote citizen participation and engagement in decision-making processes concerning local development initiatives.

However, implementation has always presented challenges. To break free from this cycle and demonstrate their dedication to enhancing devolution, the UPND-led administration has increased allocations since their inaugural budget presentation from K1.6 million to K25.7 million in 2022 and to now K28.3 million. By the next election, constituencies will have received north of K140 million. This is a lot of money that should not only acceleration the wheels of the economy but also improve on human development and dignity by supporting community projects across all the 156 constituencies.

Around the world, CDF is being used to prevent the arbitrary exercise of power by central elites and to improve the effectiveness of social service delivery. Various countries such as Kenya, South Sudan, the Philippines, Honduras, Nepal, Pakistan, Jamaica, Solomon Islands, Tanzania, Malawi, Namibia, Zambia, Uganda, Ghana, and Malaysia have adopted and are implementing their own versions of the CDF or similar programs. Zambia has taken huge steps on this by the launch of the decentralization policy and the commissioning of US$210 million Zambia Devolution Support Programme by President Hakainde Hichilema in May 2023.

In this article, I shall refrain from delving extensively into the challenges pertaining to the alignment of the CDF Guidelines and CDF Act, as well as the delegation of additional responsibilities from Lusaka to the districts. The reason for this omission is that the government has already acknowledged these challenges and is currently devising mechanisms to facilitate the necessary realignment. I will look at why there is need to urgently and deliberately introduce private sector led CDF management and remove certain functions from the fund.

INCORPORATING THE PRIVATE SECTOR IN FUND MANAGEMENT IS IMPERATIVE.

The government should contemplate the involvement of private fund managers in overseeing the management of CDF. The fund manager can receive compensation of 5% operation cost provided for in the CDF Guidelines, which amounts to approximately K1.5 million. Most importantly, considering that numerous districts have multiple constituencies, the inclusion of Fund Management would also contribute to job creation and stimulate economic growth.

Here is a breakdown of the rationale behind my proposal.

Firstly, at the core of their operational procedures, Fund Managers prioritize value for money and a good return on investment as they need to demonstrate their relevance. Their effectiveness in managing funds proves to be an efficient and fruitful approach, surpassing traditional activity-based funding. By partnering with technically proficient and reliable fund managers, optimal utilization of public funds can be ensured, leading to successful project implementation and collaborative attainment of development goals alongside responding to beneficiaries’ needs. This aligns with the objectives of Vision 2030 and the 8th National Development Plan (8NDP).

Furthermore, it is crucial to acknowledge that achieving national developmental goals requires innovative approaches that leverage private sector capacities, while fostering economic growth and development. Sustained development in the long run demands a departure from traditional government funding models, envisioning a future where the private sector plays a pivotal role. Without such efforts, there remains a significant disparity between the needs of the local communities and the current allocation of the CDF.

Thirdly, fund managers bring their expertise to the table by identifying viable investment opportunities, effectively controlling and monitoring risks. They can make investment decisions based on the fund's objectives, investment guidelines, and the risk tolerance of the investors. In addition to managing the CDF, fund managers can handle administrative tasks such as accounting, reporting, and compliance with CDF regulations.

The inclusion of fund managers in CDF project management also provides multiple benefits to the government. Firstly, it relieves the burden on Local Authority personnel, allowing them to focus on their other responsibilities, while also creating employment opportunities for graduates and addressing high unemployment rates. The private sector's dynamic nature and responsiveness to market demands make it more effective at generating employment. Secondly, fund managers have the potential to generate tax revenue through corporate taxes and employee income taxes, providing vital funding for the CDF. Additionally, their involvement can drive innovation and technological advancements through research and development, fostering productivity and competitiveness in the economy. These strategic benefits contribute to more efficient CDF project management and hold the potential to positively impact the country's socioeconomic development. 

GRANTING LOANS AND PROVIDING GRANTS SHOULD REMAIN WITH THE CITIZENS ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT COMMISSION (CEEC).

As proposed by the Private Sector Developmental Association (PSDA) Chairperson, Yusuf Dodia, CDF should not be channeled towards the empowerment of small-scale businesses. It is imperative to allocate CDF resources exclusively for developmental projects in constituencies. It is essential to emphasize the clarity of the matter at hand: the allocation of 20% of CDF specifically designated for Youth and Women Empowerment, consisting of 40% in grants and 60% in soft loans is misguided.

Maybe this allocation is warranted due to the existing challenges faced by the Citizens Economic Empowerment Commission (CEEC). The commission requires significant reforms as it is currently grappling with numerous internal and external obstacles. These challenges include inadequate financial resources, insufficient office space, a shortage of personnel, non-repayment of loans by micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), lack of autonomy, absence of CEEC officials at the district level, problematic appointments of CEEC officials, and political interference. These hurdles hinder the commission's ability to efficiently and effectively carry out its responsibilities.

To address these issues, the commission should be perceived as an independent and competent body that actively promotes the empowerment of marginalized or disadvantaged citizens. These measures will help the commission operate more effectively in its mission of economic empowerment. And more importantly, the commission can effectively take on the financing of SMEs, that will also benefit from CDF through contracts. It is a great positive-sum game. Its primary goal should be to address the constraints faced by SMES in accessing economic resources and developing their capacity for growth, all while mitigating various factors that have hindered their progress. Besides, there is an entire ministry for SMEs.

It is disheartening to hear stories of community members forming groups with the sole intention of obtaining CDF loans or grants, only to later misuse the funds by distributing cash among themselves.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, allocating K28.3 million to an agency which had previously struggled with managing K1.6 million just sets them up for failure. This also contributes to project implementation delays and potential neglect of other mandates by the Local Authority staff to solely focus on CDF projects which have more political pressure. However, although on paper there is a minimal role of Members of Parliament (MPs) in the implementation of the fund at the constituency level, providing for the constitution of local committees by citizens themselves, MPs still return a greater influence on who gets to be in the CDF committees and which projects gets prioritized due to the lack of safeguards.

Oedipus Rex and The Consequences of Truth

So, picture this: it's 13th June 2020, and I'm sitting there, reading this ancient play called "Oedipus Rex" by Sophocles. Bored and my right hand on my chin, I started thinking about some deep stuff – free will, fate, and the pursuit of truth. I couldn't keep these thoughts to myself, so I did what any self-respecting person would do these days: I shared it all on Facebook. Duh! Mark Zuckerberg and his magical algorithms thought it was a good idea to remind me of it today. Thanks, Zuck!

So, in that moment of contemplation, I asked myself, "Do we really have a choice in life, or are we just puppets in some cosmic puppet show?" And hey, do our inherent qualities steer us towards certain life paths? Like what that wise and old turtle Oogway said in Kung Fu Panda: one often meets their destiny on the road they take to avoid it. Talk about ironic, right? It's like fate has a twisted sense of humor which leads many of us right down the path we are so desperately trying to avoid. And this is evident in our career choices, relationships, personal growth – the whole shebang!

Let's face it, seeking the truth is a noble quest but it is also as scary as heck. Ignorance is blissful as what you don't know - as it is commonly claimed - can not kill you. The pursuit of truth can be downright scary. Take Oedipus in the play called Oedipus Rex by Sophocles, for example. While this dude was on a mission to save his people from a plague, little did he know that he was also inadvertently digging his own grave. The poor guy became his own judge, jury, and executioner.

Anyway, everyone around him tried to put him off from his quest and they were like, "Hey, Mr. Oedipus, maybe it's better to leave the past in the past, you know?" They understood that the revelation of his identity would bring immense suffering. King Polybus, the Oracle, Creon, Tiresias, Queen Jocasta – they all tried to talk some sense into him. But nope, Oedipus was a man on a mission, stubborn like a Bemba person from Chinsali and blinded by his obsession to uncover the truth. And boy, did he pay the price, both metaphorically and literally. Talk about a cautionary tale!

In the end, "Oedipus Rex" reminds us that life is like a wild ride at the back of Mitsubishi Canter Truck on the Livingstone - Sesheke Road with giant G. Rutherford billboards everywhere saying “DON'T MESS WITH FATE!”. The play encourages us to reflect upon the existence of free will, the influence of fate, and the ramifications of seeking knowledge. It accentuates the intricacies and contradictions inherent in the human condition, serving as a reminder that the pursuit of truth can, at times, bring about our own downfall. Life and living are a balancing act between free will and fate, and the pursuit of knowledge can sometimes come back to bite. So, let's reflect on our choices, ponder the mysteries of the universe, but remember that seeking truth might just lead us down a rabbit hole we never expected. But hey, isn't that what makes life all so gloriously messy? Then stay curious, folks!

Battlefields To Boardrooms: Shaka Zulu's Principles of Management

Netflix is currently featuring "Shaka Zulu," the original series. This series holds nostalgic significance for many of us who grew up watching it during a time when ZNBC respected its viewers by offering entertainment as opposed to the current situation of waxing lyrical about politicians and cadres. Consequently, many of us formed an impression, believing Henry Cele to be the authentic portrayal of Shaka. However, this sentiment may not resonate with Generation Z and Generation Alpha, as they associate Shaka with Marky 2. Setting aside this failed attempt at humor, let us delve into the essence of the matter.

Shaka Zulu, a renowned Zulu king who reigned from 1816 to 1828, gained recognition for his groundbreaking military strategies that transformed the Zulu army into an impressive fighting force. His military reforms revolutionized warfare in Southern Africa. Shaka exemplified visionary leadership, displaying a clear sense of purpose and direction. Remarkably, his leadership style offers valuable insights and lessons applicable to contemporary management practices, spanning from politicians and military generals to CEOs and religious leaders. Consequently, I present several ways in which elements of Shaka's strategy retain relevance in modern management.

1. Adopt A Proactive Leadership Approach

The current advocates of leadership erroneously concur that managers, presidents, and military generals should adopt a passive approach, leading from the rear and delegating significant responsibilities to their subordinates. They argue that this approach fosters capacity building and cultivates the next generation of leaders. However, I dissent for the following reasons:

a) Leadership entails being at the forefront, as implied by the term itself. By assuming a prominent position, a leader sets the pace for a positive work culture, propels high performance, and maximizes the potential of their teams. Embracing a hands-off management style is laissez-faire and has provided opportunities for individuals who now masquerades as leaders while displaying indifference towards their followers. How can one effectively, efficiently, and empathetically lead people without comprehending the political, socioeconomic, and cultural context in which they operate? This pattern is observable even in religious settings, where leaders assure their congregants of heavenly rewards while themselves indulge in extravagant lifestyles here and now. Likewise, we witness military generals reject peace deals and push for wars and ultimately get decorated with medals while their soldiers get burried under the onslaught of bullets and bombs. Furthermore, politicians purporting to represent the underprivileged reside in opulence, secluding themselves behind imposing walls and heightened security measures. Additionally, managers who issue orders and demand results from the comfort of an air-conditioned office, while their staff toil under the sun with meager rewards, epitomize this paradigm. These instances, among many others, serve as quintessential illustrations that resonate with our collective experiences. Shaka, on the other hand, would position himself on the battlefront, delivering the first decisive blow and issuing commands. If generals and politicians were compelled to be on the frontlines just to issue orders, we would witness a reduction in superfluous wars.

b) Inspiration and Motivation: Leaders who lead from the front inspire and motivate their team members. By exemplifying commitment, enthusiasm, and a strong work ethic, leaders establish a positive example that encourages team members to exert their utmost effort. Witnessing their leader actively engage and invest in the work instills a sense of purpose and motivation within the team. This unyielding tactic is employed by politicians to secure votes - the art of appearing as one with the people: shaking every hand, embracing babies, and partaking in local street and market experiences. Without a doubt, leaders should be perceived as individuals who are deeply connected to their constituents.

c) Accountability and Responsibility: Leading from the front fortifies accountability and responsibility within the team. When leaders assume ownership of their actions, fulfill their commitments, and adhere to high standards, they establish a precedent for the entire team. Team members are more inclined to take ownership of their work and be accountable for their actions when they witness their leader leading by example.

2. Formulate a distinct and well-defined strategy

Shaka's military strategy, deeply rooted in the context of warfare in the early 19th century, continues to offer valuable insights and lessons that can be applied to contemporary management styles. Here are several ways in which elements of Shaka's strategy remain relevant in modern management:

a) Agile and Responsive Approach: Shaka's emphasis on agility and responsiveness resonates with modern management principles such as agile management and adaptive leadership. Just as Shaka's forces adapted their tactics to the dynamic battlefield, organizations today need to be flexible, responsive, and capable of swiftly adjusting their strategies in rapidly evolving business environments.

b) Encouraging Innovation: Shaka's military reforms were driven by innovative thinking, challenging conventional norms, and introducing novel tactics and weaponry. Similarly, in today's business world, cultivating a culture of innovation and empowering employees to think creatively can enable organizations to outpace competitors and adapt to shifting market demands.

c) Psychological Warfare: Shaka's utilization of psychological warfare, employing intimidating displays and tactics, foreshadowed the understanding of managing perception and influencing stakeholders. In modern management, effective leaders recognize the significance of communication, branding, and managing the psychological aspects of their teams and customers.

d) Continuous Learning and Intelligence Gathering: Shaka's emphasis on intelligence gathering and reconnaissance underscores the importance of acquiring relevant data and information in contemporary management practices. In a fast-paced business environment, organizations must continually gather market intelligence, monitor trends, and analyze data to make informed decisions and maintain competitiveness.

e) Discipline and Training: Shaka's focus on discipline and rigorous training translates into the importance of investing in employee development and continuous learning. Nurturing a disciplined and well-trained workforce leads to heightened productivity, improved performance, and greater adaptability to organizational changes.

f) Strategic Thinking and Positional Advantage: Shaka's tactics of encirclement and flanking underscore the significance of strategic thinking and gaining a positional advantage. In today's business landscape, leaders must analyze market dynamics, identify opportunities, and develop strategies that provide a competitive edge. Understanding the importance of positioning, both in terms of product or service offerings and market presence, can pave the path to long-term success.

g) Leadership and Team Cohesion: Shaka's ability to unite and lead his warriors to victory exemplifies the importance of effective leadership and team cohesion. Strong leadership, clear communication, and fostering a sense of purpose and camaraderie within teams are pivotal in modern management to inspire employees, build trust, and achieve organizational goals. 

3. Utilize Appropriate Tools to Implement The Strategy

To gain a competitive edge, leaders in various fields, including managers, politicians, and military generals, should avoid conforming to conventional approaches. Apple Inc serves as a prime example of a highly profitable enterprise due to its ability to deliver unique products and services. Consumers are not merely purchasing an iPhone or a MacBook; they are investing in distinctiveness. Every leader must identify the factors that differentiate them significantly from their peers. In this regard, I will discuss three such differentiators: the Assegai, the long shield, and the cow horn formation.

a) The Assegai, a short-stabbing spear introduced by Shaka, became the hallmark weapon of the Zulu warriors. Shorter in length compared to traditional spears, the Assegai proved highly effective in close-quarters combat. Shaka meticulously trained his warriors to engage the enemy at short range, leveraging their agility and manoeuvrability to overpower their opponents.

b) Adaptation of the Battle Shield. Shaka implemented significant modifications to the traditional Zulu shield as part of his military reforms. These adaptations aimed to enhance the effectiveness of Zulu warriors in battle. The shield adjustments were designed to improve mobility, facilitate close combat techniques, instill fear in the enemy, and establish a distinctive cultural and military identity. Aligned with his broader military strategy, which prioritized aggression, discipline, and the Zulu warriors' effectiveness in combat, these modifications proved instrumental.

c) The Cow's Horn Formation. Shaka frequently employed the military tactic of encircling and flanking the enemy to gain a strategic advantage. Leveraging their mobility and speed, Zulu warriors would outmanoeuvre their opponents, launching simultaneous attacks from multiple directions. This disruptive manoeuvre effectively disoriented the enemy's formation, leading to confusion and ultimately enabling the Zulu forces to triumph over their adversaries.

Utilizing appropriate management tools significantly enhances operational efficiency, facilitates evidence-based decision-making, fosters effective collaboration and communication, aids in strategic planning and organizational structure, supports performance management, mitigates risks, and cultivates employee engagement and satisfaction. These indispensable tools empower politicians, military generals, and managers to proficiently lead their teams, drive organizational triumph, and effectively navigate the complexities of the contemporary business environment.

In conclusion, there are countless lessons one learn from Shaka's military and leadership reforms. This write up is just but a tip. On the other hand, one can also engage in debates regarding Shaka's methods, including their brutality and the stringent training imposed upon his soldiers, it is undeniable that he achieved remarkable advancements in the realms of warfare and management. By drawing inspiration from historical strategies, managers can gain fresh perspectives and valuable insights to successfully navigate the ever-evolving business landscape. Therefore, it is incumbent upon politicians, CEOs, managers, religious leaders, military generals, and others to observe Shaka's approach and derive invaluable lessons on strategic planning, implementation, and effective management. Start by watching "Shaka Zulu," the original series on Netflix.