Kadoma — The Local Government Board (LGB) has launched a two-day capacity-building workshop in Kadoma aimed at strengthening working relationships between elected councillors and appointed officials in urban local authorities.
The workshop, attended by senior council officials, mayors, chairpersons, and heads of Human Resources and Finance Committees, is focused on clarifying roles, improving governance, and enhancing collaboration in city councils.
Addressing participants, LGB Chairman Steven Chakaipa said the workshop seeks to define the distinct but complementary roles of elected and appointed council members. He noted that previous clashes in councils have often stemmed from misunderstandings over duties and responsibilities.
“The meeting is meant to enhance understanding of conflict management within urban councils. We also want to build capacity on the correct procedures for recruitment and dismissals,” Chakaipa said. “Additionally, the workshop is aimed at strengthening good governance in local authorities.”
Chakaipa highlighted the LGB’s role in filling senior council positions, revealing that significant progress has been made in reducing vacancies. Currently, the board is overseeing only five vacant posts for town clerks/town secretaries and two for chamber secretaries.
“For Directors of Finance, there are four vacancies, and for Housing, three. We are now also focusing on the newly created Directorate of Spatial Planning,” he said.
The LGB said the initiative is part of broader efforts to promote professional management, accountability, and harmonious relations between councillors and municipal management teams across the country.
