The Office of the Council Secretary serves as the executive office of the Town Council, with the Council Secretary functioning as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO). The office is responsible for providing strategic leadership, oversight, and coordination of all Council operations, ensuring alignment with national development goals, the Local Government Act, and the National Decentralisation Policy.

Core Responsibilities

The Office shall perform the following specific functions:

• a) Provide overall policy guidance, administrative leadership, and coordination of all Council operations to ensure efficient service delivery.
• b) Interpret and translate Government policies, legislation, and development frameworks into implementable Council programs and projects.
• c) Ensure effective inter-departmental coordination to promote efficiency, minimize duplication, and enhance operational synergy.
• d) Oversee the implementation and monitoring of Council projects and programs, ensuring alignment with strategic goals.
• e) Coordinate planning and budgeting processes to ensure that resources are allocated in accordance with Council priorities.
• f) Ensure compliance with legal, financial, and governance frameworks to promote transparency and accountability.
• g) Foster stakeholder engagement with the community, Central Government, Cooperating Partners, and the private sector.
• h) Serve as the primary liaison between the Council and external stakeholders, including Government ministries and development agencies.
• i) Provide technical and secretarial support to Council Committees and facilitate the implementation of Council resolutions.
• j) Spearhead risk and crisis management efforts within the Council’s jurisdiction.
• k) Promote institutional integrity, staff performance, and professional standards across all departments.

1. Public Relations Unit

The Public Relations Unit shall operate under the Office of the Council Secretary and is responsible for promoting the image of the Council and ensuring effective communication with the public and stakeholders.

The Public Relations Unit shall be headed by a Public Relations Officer  assisted by one (1) Assistant Public Relations Officer  

Specific Functions

The Unit shall perform the following specific functions:

• a) Coordinate press releases and media communications to keep the public informed on Council operations and developments.
• b) Prepare responses to press and public queries to support transparency and informed decision-making.
• c) Coordinate the production of brochures, newsletters, magazines, radio, and television programs to disseminate Council information.
• d) Manage digital media platforms (including websites and social media) to enhance public engagement and accessibility.
• e) Coordinate the organization and hosting of Council functions, events, and public outreach programs.

2. ICT UNIT

The ICT Unit supports digital transformation and manages council information systems to ensure efficient access to planning data and services.

The Unit shall be headed by a System Analyst and assisted by two (2) programmers  

Core Functions:

• Develop and maintain management information systems (MIS).
• Align ICT systems with user needs and technical standards.
• Manage website and digital content for the Council.

3. Legal Services Unit

The Legal Services Unit is responsible for providing legal counsel to the Council, representing it in legal proceedings, and ensuring that all Council activities are conducted within the framework of the law. The Unit plays a central role in safeguarding the legal and financial interests of the Council.

The Legal Services Unit shall be headed by a Council Advocate and supported by two (2) Senior Legal Assistants.

Key Functions

The Unit shall perform the following specific functions:

1. a) Legal Representation:
   Represent the Council in all legal matters before the courts of law to protect and defend the interests of the Council.
2. b) Litigation Management:
   Prepare and manage litigation documents relating to cases involving the Council to ensure proper handling of legal proceedings and safeguard Council resources.
3. c) Legal Advisory Services:
   Provide legal advice to the Council and its departments to support lawful and informed decision-making processes.
4. d) Land Administration Support:
   Process land applications to support fair allocation and sustainable land development within the Council’s jurisdiction.
5. e) Prosecution Services:
   Prosecute offences under the Local Government Act and related legislation to enforce compliance with Council by-laws and statutory obligations.
6. f) Deeds Register Maintenance:
   Maintain an accurate and up-to-date Deeds Register to support transparency and accountability in property ownership.
7. g) Licensing:
   Issue various business licences as provided for under the law, to regulate economic activity and ensure legal compliance.
8. h) Contract Management:
   Draft, review, and execute contracts to support effective contract management and minimize legal risk to the Council.
9. i) Legal Drafting Coordination:
   Coordinate the drafting and vetting of contracts and agreements prior to submission to the Attorney General, ensuring legal sufficiency and clarity.
10. j) Revenue Legal Support:
    Provide legal support on matters concerning levies, tariffs, tolls, and licences to ensure alignment with applicable laws and policies.
11. k) Tax Law Advisory:
    Offer legal opinions on tax-related matters to support the Attorney General’s decisions and enhance fiscal policy compliance.

4. Procurement and Supplies Unit

The Procurement and Supplies Unit is responsible for managing the acquisition of works, goods, and services to support the Council’s operations. The Unit ensures that all procurement activities are conducted transparently, efficiently, and in accordance with relevant laws and regulations, while achieving value for money.

The Procurement and Supplies Unit shall be headed by a Chief Procurement and Supplies Officer and assisted by one (1) Senior Procurement and Supplies Officer.

Key Functions

The Unit shall perform the following specific functions:

1. a) Procurement Planning:
   Prepare and implement the Council’s annual Procurement Plan to guide the timely and cost-effective acquisition of goods, services, and works.
2. b) Procurement Execution:
   Undertake procurement of goods, services, and works in line with approved plans and budget allocations to ensure uninterrupted Council operations.
3. c) Contract Documentation:
   Prepare solicitation documents (e.g., Requests for Quotations, Invitations to Tender) and draft contract agreements to support fair and competitive procurement processes.
4. d) Contract Management:
   Monitor and manage procurement contracts to ensure compliance with terms and conditions, timely delivery, and quality assurance.
5. e) Procurement Advisory Services:
   Provide expert advice to the Council on procurement laws, best practices, and contract-related matters to promote compliance and informed decision-making.
6. f) Reporting:
   Prepare and submit procurement activity reports to ensure accountability, transparency, and audit readiness.
7. g) Committee Support:
   Serve as the Secretariat to the Procurement Committee, ensuring proper documentation of meetings, decisions, and approvals.

5. Internal Audit Unit

The Internal Audit Unit is responsible for providing independent, objective assurance and consulting services designed to add value and improve the Council’s operations. It supports the Council in achieving its objectives by systematically evaluating and improving the effectiveness of risk management, internal control, and governance processes.

The Internal Audit Unit shall be headed by a Chief Internal Auditor and assisted by one (1) Senior Internal Auditor.

Key Functions

The Internal Audit Unit shall perform the following specific functions:

1. a) Audit Assignments:
   Conduct financial, operational, and compliance audits to assess the effectiveness of internal controls, risk management, and governance systems.
2. b) Risk Management Review:
   Evaluate and monitor the Council’s risk management processes to determine their adequacy and effectiveness in safeguarding resources.
3. c) Secretariat Support:
   Provide Secretariat services to the Audit Committee, including preparing agendas, recording minutes, and following up on action points.
4. d) Audit Recommendations Monitoring:
   Track the implementation of both internal and external audit recommendations and report on progress to facilitate evidence-based decision-making.
5. e) Audit Information Management:
   Maintain an internal audit database and documentation system for secure, efficient retrieval and reference of audit reports and working papers.
6. f) Reporting:
   Prepare and consolidate monthly, quarterly, and annual internal audit reports for submission to management and oversight bodies to support transparency and accountability.
7. g) Advisory Services:
   Offer advisory support to management and departments on risk management, controls, and compliance to promote efficient operations and ethical practices.
8. h) Verification Exercises:
   Carry out periodic verification of stores, assets, and inventories to ensure accuracy, accountability, and proper asset management.

The Department of Human Resource and Administration is mandated to manage and develop the human capital of the Council, while providing administrative, secretarial, logistical, and security services. Its overarching goal is to ensure optimal staff performance, effective operations, and institutional efficiency across all Council functions.

Core Responsibilities

The Department is responsible for:

• Human resource planning, management, and development;
• Provision of administrative and logistical support;
• Coordination of Council meetings and committee secretariat services;
• Promotion of staff welfare and wellness;
• Provision of security services to safeguard Council assets and operations.

Organizational Structure

The Department is headed by a Director – Human Resource and Administration (LGSS05) and comprises three sections:

1. Human Resource Management and Development Section
2. Committee & Administration Section
3. Security Section
4. Human Resource Management and Development Section

To manage staff recruitment, development, performance, and welfare systems, while ensuring institutional adherence to employment laws and policies.

Key Functions:

• Manage human resource functions to enhance staff productivity and service delivery;
• Coordinate wellness and occupational health programs (e.g., HIV/AIDS interventions);
• Implement staff welfare initiatives to motivate and retain personnel;
• Interpret and disseminate labor laws and conditions of service to promote transparency;
• Administer grievance procedures and disciplinary mechanisms;
• Manage the payroll and oversee salary and allowance processing;
• Implement performance management systems to track employee output;
• Facilitate recruitment, placement, and separation of staff;
• Plan and implement continuous capacity-building and staff development programs.

2. Committee & Administration Section

To provide administrative and logistical services and act as the Secretariat to the Council and its Committees, thereby supporting efficient governance and service delivery.

Key Units and Functions:

2.1 Administration Unit

• Deliver administrative, transport, secretarial, and logistical support to Council operations;
• Manage and maintain Council infrastructure and surrounding environments;
• Track and service assets, vehicles, and equipment;
• Coordinate Council participation in national events and commemorations.

2.2 Committee Unit

• Provide secretarial services to all Council standing committees;
• Develop and circulate the Council meeting calendar;
• Collate and review committee reports;
• Record, compile, and archive Council and committee minutes and resolutions;
• Ensure timely dissemination of committee documents.

2.3 Registry Unit

• Manage records and correspondence to ensure proper flow and easy retrieval of official documentation;
• Maintain the registry and oversee archiving to safeguard institutional memory;
• Provide mail distribution and correspondence tracking services.

3. Security Section

To enforce law and order on Council premises, markets, and public transport facilities, while protecting Council assets and personnel.

Key Functions:

• Provide physical security at Council offices, markets, and bus stations;
• Conduct investigations into theft, irregularities, and internal incidents;
• Apprehend offenders in accordance with local government by-laws;
• Provide VIP protection services to Council leadership;
• Enforce Council by-laws, especially in public trading and transit areas.

Oversees effectively and efficiently the collection of all revenues due to the Council in order to finance Council’s operations.

Oversees effectively the monitoring of expenditure in order to ensure compliance with Council’s budget

Oversees the timely production of financial reports for both internal and external users in order to facilitate decision making

Oversees effectively the management of the payroll in order to ensure that expenditure on personal emoluments is accurate and contained within the budget limits

The Engineering Services Department is responsible for delivering critical infrastructure and utility services to support development and improve the quality of life within Namwala District. The department plays a key role in the construction and maintenance of roads, buildings, parks, water systems, and public lighting. It also oversees fire and rescue services, vehicle maintenance, and the provision of mechanical and electrical services.

Core Functions

The Department of Engineering Services undertakes the following core functions:

• Constructing and maintaining local roads, drainage systems, and public buildings.
• Supervising architectural design and construction of public infrastructure to ensure safety, functionality, and compliance with national standards.
• Installing and maintaining street and traffic lighting to improve road safety and security.
• Conducting quantity surveying, including the preparation of Bills of Quantities, tender documents, and cost estimates for construction projects.
• Facilitating mechanical services for maintenance of council plants, equipment, and vehicles.
• Conducting inspections for vehicle and vessel licensing, and ensuring operational roadworthiness.
• Managing parks, gardens, and open spaces to promote a clean and green environment.
• Providing and maintaining pontoon and ferry services to enable transportation across water bodies.
• Delivering fire and rescue services to protect lives, property, and the environment.
• Overseeing rural water supply and sanitation services in both peri-urban and rural communities.
• Supporting the implementation of Constituency Development Fund (CDF) infrastructure projects.

DEPARTMENTAL STRUCTURE

The department is headed by the Director Engineering Services and supported by the Assistant Director Engineering Services. It comprises two main sections:

1. ENGINEERING SECTION

This section oversees all infrastructure and utility-related operations. It is divided into the following units:

1. Maintenance and Electrical Engineering Unit

• Manages the installation and maintenance of electrical systems, street lights, and traffic lighting.
• Oversees maintenance of public buildings and ensures their serviceability.

1. Quantity Surveying Unit

• Prepares Bills of Quantities, tender documentation, and cost estimates.
• Administers construction contracts to ensure value for money.

1. Architectural Unit

• Develops architectural designs and working drawings.
• Supervises and manages contracts for the construction of public buildings.

1. Roads and Drainage Unit

• Designs, constructs, and maintains roads and drainage systems.
• Ensures safe and efficient transportation within the district.

1. Mechanical Services Unit

• Maintains and repairs council vehicles and heavy-duty equipment.
• Ensures functionality of machinery and mechanical systems.

1. Pontoons and Ferries Unit

• Provides ferry and pontoon crossing services to improve connectivity across water bodies.

1. Parks and Gardens Unit

• Manages and maintains public parks, gardens, and green spaces to beautify the district.

1. Vehicle Maintenance Services Unit

• Oversees vehicle inspections, maintenance, and repair.
• Facilitates licensing through inspection of vehicles and vessels.

2. FIRE AND RESCUE SERVICES UNIT

Headed by the Divisional Fire Officer, this unit is dedicated to emergency response and fire prevention. It performs the following functions:

• Provides firefighting and emergency rescue services.
• Conducts fire safety inspections and public education.
• Trains personnel and communities in fire prevention and safety.
• Maintains firefighting equipment and vehicles.
• Collaborates with stakeholders on fire safety infrastructure and design.

3. RURAL WATER AND SANITATION UNIT

Led by the Water and Sanitation Engineer, this unit is responsible for water and sanitation services in underserved areas. Key functions include:

• Designing and coordinating water supply and sanitation infrastructure.
• Supporting community-based water supply and sanitation initiatives.
• Monitoring and maintaining water and sanitation systems in rural and peri-urban areas.
• Regulating private sanitation providers to ensure public health and environmental protection.

PLANNING DEPARTMENT

The Planning Department draws its authority from The Urban and Regional Planning Act #3 0f 2015 for both Rural and Urban Planning in fostering Development control. The Director of Planning oversees the department which is tasked to establishing a clear developmental framework and roadmap for the district. To accomplish these developmental goals, the department operates through the following sections.

Town Planning Section.

The Town Planning Section is segmented into two units. Forward Planning and Development Control with the aim of bringing harmonious and acceptable urban development. The key responsibilities under this section include:

Creation and Numbering of Plots

Creation/production of site plans

Design of local Area plans.

Management of GIS data base

Buildings Inspection Section

This section holds the responsibility for development control. The primary duties of this section range from:

Development Control

Building Inspections.

Guidance on building standards.

Enforce compliance.

Survey Section

The section is responsible for guiding land boundary limits. Some of the major tasks are:

Placement and Re-Establishing of property boundaries.

Preparation of survey diagrams.

Preparation of survey reports.

Location of property boundaries

Road marking.

Socio-Economic Planning Section

The section is mandated to undertake socio-economic planning to improve the implementation of Council developmental plans and programs. Key responsibilities include:

Development Planning.

Coordinate Constituency Development Fund (CDF) activities

Socio economic co-ordination

Capacity building.

Project Proposals.

Monitoring and Evaluation.

Research and Development

DISTRICT AIDS COORDINATION ADVISOR SECTION

This section is mandated to co-ordinate response strategies to HIV and AIDS, in order to ensure that all developmental and social service plans mainstream HIV and AIDS using multi-sectorial approach. The following are the key responsibilities.

Provide policy guidance and interpret government mainstreaming policies

Coordinate the local HIV response in line with the priorities of the National HIV and AIDS strategic framework through the HIV and AIDS committee

To ensure mainstreaming of HIV and AIDS gender and human rights  in sector developmental plans

To coordinate and supervise the activities on HIV at district and sub-district level

Facilitate the collection, storage, retrieval and analysis of local data on HIV and AIDS for planning and decision making at various levels of the local authority

Provide technical assistance to implementing partners in the district

Ensure capital projects apportion funds for HIV sensitization

Monitoring

Environmental Planning Section

The section is mandated with the responsibility of mainstreaming environmental concerns in development plans and programs to enhance sustainability. Key responsibilities include:

Preparation of Environmental Assessment Reports.

Environmental Profiling.

Preparation of Environmental Briefs.

Conduct Environmental Education.

Monitoring and Evaluation.

To provide preventive and curative health services through clinical care, general nursing, provision of medical equipment, and pharmaceutical services. The department also implements public health programmes to prevent, control, and eliminate diseases in order to promote health and prolong life.

Core Responsibilities

The Department shall:

• Provide clinical care services
• Deliver nursing care and pharmaceutical services
• Control communicable and Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs)
• Provide counselling and testing services
• Implement malaria control and elimination strategies
• Provide child health and vaccination services
• Ensure availability and maintenance of medical equipment in health facilities
• Deliver environmental and maternal health services
• Offer family planning counselling and commodities
• Provide nutrition services
• Conduct health education and disease surveillance programmes
• Manage ambulance and referral services

Organizational Structure

The Department is headed by a Director – Health Services, assisted by:

• Assistant Director – Health Services
• Assistant Director – Public Health Services

It is composed of two (2) main sections:

1. Health Services Section

Coordinate the provision of preventive and curative health services, oversee general nursing, clinical care, pharmaceuticals, medical equipment, and supervise various health facilities.

Units under Health Services Section:

1. a) Clinical Care and Diagnostic Services Unit

• Oversees clinical, diagnostic, pharmaceutical, and outreach services
• Provides curative inpatient/outpatient care
• Manages maternal, neonatal, child, adolescent, and nutrition services
• Supervises surgical, rehabilitative, mortuary, and biomedical services
• Ensures quality assurance and research in clinical care

1. b) Nursing and Midwifery Services Unit

• Coordinates nursing and midwifery care delivery
• Implements nursing policies, standards, and protocols
• Provides technical support and training to nursing staff
• Collaborates with the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Zambia (NMCZ)
• Conducts research and quality assessments in nursing practice

Health Facilities under this Section:

1. District Hospitals

Provide comprehensive clinical, diagnostic, pharmaceutical, surgical, and maternal care services.

1. Mini Hospitals

Offer primary and some secondary care services, including minor surgery, maternal and child health, and basic diagnostics.

iii. Zonal Health Centres

Serve as referral centres for Health Posts and provide outpatient services, health education, and public health interventions.

1. Urban Health Centres

Deliver outpatient, maternal, diagnostic, and pharmaceutical services in town areas.

1. Rural Health Centres

Provide essential health services, mainly preventive and basic curative care in remote locations.

2. Public Health Services Section

Implement disease prevention and control programmes, health education, solid waste management, and surveillance systems to improve population health and prolong life.

Units under Public Health Services Section:

1. a) Public Health Unit

• Implements public health programmes
• Conducts disease surveillance and community health research
• Provides health education and technical support

1. b) Environmental Health Unit

• Manages sanitation, healthcare waste, food and drug safety
• Coordinates disease outbreak preparedness and response
• Implements hygiene and sanitation programmes

1. c) Health Inspectorate Unit

• Conducts public health inspections
• Ensures food safety, occupational health, and compliance with public health laws

1. d) Health Promotions Unit

• Implements health education and behavioural change campaigns
• Collaborates with media and stakeholders
• Conducts school and community health outreach

1. e) Cleansing and Pest Control Unit

• Manages street and public facility cleaning
• Controls pests and vectors
• Oversees solid waste collection and disposal

1. f) Funeral Services Unit

• Administers cemeteries and funeral services
• Ensures dignified, sanitary burial of deceased persons
• Maintains mortuary records and equipment

The Department of Fisheries, Livestock and Veterinary Services is mandated to implement fisheries and livestock development programmes, as well as to provide comprehensive veterinary services. It also monitors the implementation of national capture fisheries and aquaculture initiatives at the district level.

Core Responsibilities

The Department is responsible for the following key functions:

• Provision of veterinary services in the district.
• Promotion of safe trade in animals and animal products.
• Implementation of livestock policies and legislation.
• Enforcement of animal welfare and promotion of livestock production programmes.
• Management of rangelands and livestock water sources.
• Implementation of livestock grading standards.
• Conservation and sustainable management of fisheries resources.
• Enforcement of food safety standards through collaboration with relevant stakeholders.

Departmental Structure

The Department is headed by a Director of Fisheries, Livestock and Veterinary Services and is supported by Assistant Directors overseeing four main sections:

1. Fisheries and Aquaculture
2. Livestock Development
3. Veterinary Services
4. Fisheries and Livestock Marketing
5. Fisheries and Aquaculture Section

To implement and monitor fisheries programmes related to both capture fisheries and aquaculture development, while also providing regulation, education, and extension services at the district level.

Core Functions:

• Conserve, manage, and develop fishery resources in a sustainable manner.
• Prevent pollution and environmental threats to aquatic ecosystems.
• Enforce the annual fishing ban to support fish breeding.
• Provide fisheries and aquaculture extension services.
• Inspect aquatic environments and fish handling practices.
• Disseminate knowledge on fisheries and aquaculture.
• Support training institutions on fisheries-related issues.

2. Livestock Development Section

To promote livestock development programmes that enhance productivity and sustainability in livestock farming systems.

Core Functions:

• Promote animal welfare and livestock production systems.
• Encourage production of indigenous livestock breeds.
• Manage pasturelands and water sources for livestock.
• Enforce standards for livestock and related products.
• Facilitate the transfer of livestock production technologies.
• Maintain a district livestock database.
• Coordinate with stakeholders in livestock management.

3. Veterinary Services Section

To control zoonotic diseases, ensure food safety from animal-source products, reduce antimicrobial resistance, and promote animal welfare.

This section is subdivided into three units:

3.1. Veterinary Public Health Unit

Functions:

• Implement zoonotic disease control measures.
• Conduct disease surveillance (e.g., rabies, brucellosis, TB).
• Enforce regulations for domestic animal management (e.g., dog control).
• Promote public awareness of zoonotic diseases.

3.2. Veterinary Inspectorate Unit

Functions:

• Monitor and enforce food safety in processing establishments.
• Inspect production points and feed manufacturers.
• Conduct meat inspections in abattoirs.
• Monitor veterinary drug residues.
• Enforce sanitary standards in animal product facilities.

3.3. Veterinary Extension Services Unit

Functions:

• Provide animal health extension services to farmers.
• Manage veterinary checkpoints and quarantine facilities.
• Conduct training on animal husbandry and disease prevention.
• Support establishment of disease-free zones to facilitate trade.

Fisheries and Livestock Marketing Unit

The Fisheries and Livestock Marketing Unit is mandated to spearhead the implementation of fisheries and livestock marketing initiatives at the district level. The Unit plays a key role in transforming fisheries and livestock production into viable commercial enterprises by improving market access, promoting value addition, and strengthening agribusiness capacities among producers.

Core Functions

The Unit shall perform the following specific functions:

1. Strategy Development and Implementation
   • Formulate and operationalize fisheries and livestock marketing strategies to strengthen market systems and improve product competitiveness.
2. Market Information Management
   • Collect, analyze, and disseminate timely and relevant market data on livestock and fish products and by-products to guide producers, processors, traders, and policymakers in making informed decisions.
3. Capacity Building and Agribusiness Development
   • Coordinate and deliver training programs in agribusiness and marketing for fishers and livestock farmers to enhance entrepreneurial skills and promote market-driven production systems.
4. Trade Facilitation (Domestic and Cross-Border)
   • Support and promote local and international trade of livestock and fishery products, particularly in border districts such as Sesheke and Kazungula, to expand markets and increase household incomes.
5. Market Research and Analysis
   • Conduct research on consumer preferences, value chains, pricing trends, and demand-supply dynamics to inform market development policies and interventions.
6. Marketing Infrastructure Development
   • Promote the establishment, upgrading, and maintenance of essential fisheries and livestock marketing infrastructure such as slaughter facilities, fish markets, cold storage units, and transportation systems to reduce post-harvest losses and enhance product quality.
7. Stakeholder Engagement and Investment Promotion
   • Collaborate with public and private stakeholders, including cooperatives, traders, processors, and investors, to foster market linkages, innovation, and investments in the fisheries and livestock value chains.
8. Nutrition Improvement through Market Access
   • Enhance access to and consumption of safe, diverse, and culturally acceptable animal-source foods to improve nutritional outcomes in both rural and urban communities.
9. Value Addition, Preservation, and Food Security
   • Promote diversified fisheries and livestock-based products through food processing, preservation, and storage techniques to increase shelf life, reduce food waste, and support household food and nutrition security.

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:

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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.