Local Government and Rural Development Permanent Secretary for Administration, Gabriel Pollen, says the introduction of web-based Management Information System (MIS) packages in councils will bring convenience, transparency, and accessibility to the services offered to the community.
In a speech read on his behalf by the Ministry’s Information, Communication, and Technology Director, Judith Beene, at the launch of the MIS Package in Kalomo yesterday, Dr Pollen observed that the system would enable community members to have simplified access to council services, reduce long queues and unnecessary movements between offices with cashless payment options through mobile money services and other online platforms.
“This system will not just benefit the public but also the local authorities through the integration of budgets, revenue collection, licensing, expenditure, payroll, human resource, stores, and reporting into one secure platform,’’ Dr Pollen added.
ZANIS reports that Kalomo Council Chairperson, Coy Makaya also stated that the launch of the MIS, commonly known as the ‘Paperless Express’ is a significant milestone towards modernising the council’s operations that will bring efficiency, transparency, and accountability in the way the civic authority serves its residents.
He stated that as a council, embracing digital solutions is essential in responding to the evolving needs of the community.
Meanwhile, Kalomo Town Council Secretary Trophius Kufanga, said the introduction of the software is a timely and practical solution to many of the operational challenges the local authority was facing.
‘’As a council, we have for many years relied on manual and paper based processes, which often resulted in delays, duplication of work, misplaced records, and long queues for the community to access our services.
“So this system will help residents clearly understand what is required of them and make their interaction with the council smoother and less frustrating,’’ notes Mr Kufanga.
Kalomo District Commissioner Joshua Sikaduli also urged all stakeholders to support the system as it improves the council’s service delivery to the community.
The MIS package has been developed by Kunachi Software System in partnership with Access Bank in Kalomo, and has already demonstrated positive results in other councils across the country.
