COMMUNITY DEPARTMENT

The Department of Community Services is responsible for delivering social protection programmes and community development services to enhance the well-being of residents in Namwala District. It also oversees the management of bus stations, markets, council properties, housing, sports and recreation, library and archives, culture, and local tourism.

Core Functions

The Department performs the following key functions:

  • Coordinate and implement community development and social welfare programmes.
  • Manage council housing and properties.
  • Administer bus stations and market facilities to enhance service delivery and revenue collection.
  • Deliver library and archival services to support research and preserve public records.
  • Promote sports and recreational activities to improve community wellness.
  • Preserve and promote cultural heritage, traditions, and creative industries.
  • Facilitate skills development through functional literacy and vocational training.
  • Promote local tourism to boost economic activity and district branding.

DEPARTMENTAL STRUCTURE

The department is headed by the Director – Community Services, supported by the Assistant Director – Social Services, Assistant Director – Bus Stations, Markets & Housing, and the Tourism Officer. It is organized into two sections and one unit:

  1. SOCIAL SERVICES SECTION

This section is responsible for implementing social development initiatives and community empowerment programmes. It is subdivided into five (5) functional units:

Community Development Unit

  • Mobilizes and registers community voluntary organisations.
  • Coordinates self-help initiatives and community-based development projects.
  • Implements skills development programmes.
  1. Social Welfare Services Unit
  • Implements social protection strategies for vulnerable groups.
  • Provides services such as adoption, foster care, and juvenile support.
  • Manages places of safety and regulates children’s homes.
  1. Sports Unit
  • Promotes community and school sports programmes.
  • Supports the formation of sports clubs and maintains data on sports development.
  1. Cultural Affairs Unit
  • Safeguards tangible and intangible cultural heritage.
  • Facilitates cultural research, training, and performances.
  1. Library and Archiving Services Unit
  • Provides access to library and information resources.
  • Manages public records and archives, including digitization of historical data.

 

  1. BUS STATIONS, MARKETS, AND HOUSING SECTION

This section ensures efficient operation of public markets, bus stations, and council housing. It includes:

  1. Bus Stations Unit
  • Manages the daily operations and infrastructure of bus stations.
  1. Markets Unit
  • Oversees market management to ensure compliance, hygiene, and revenue enhancement.
  1. Housing Services Unit
  • Administers council residential and commercial properties.
  • Facilitates the provision and maintenance of public housing.
  1. TOURISM UNIT

This unit promotes domestic tourism within Namwala District to enhance cultural appreciation and contribute to the local economy.

  • Implements tourism development strategies and projects.
  • Promotes investment in local tourism products and services.
  • Collaborates with stakeholders for tourism research and events.

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