CABINET has approved the establishment and formalisation of the Presidential Delivery Unit (PDU) within the Government system.
Minister of Information and Media, Chushi Kasanda said in a statement that Cabinet had observed that there was need to create the PDU as a matter of urgency to help accelerate the implementation of high–priority programmes and projects that deliver lasting benefits to Zambians.
Ms Kasanda said these programmes would focus on the key objectives of delivering economic and social improvements to the people of Zambia and creating a united and prosperous country with equal opportunities for all citizens.
She said the PDU would usher in an era of good governance and prudent economic management that would foster accelerated development across the country. Ms Kasanda added that Cabinet indicated that the PDU would not take away the normal gazette functions of Government institutions but would work closely with all respective ministries, provinces, and implementation agencies to provide technical support, and on the overall, to fast-track the implementation of government programmes and projects for the good of the citizens and the nation at large.
Meanwhile, Cabinet has approved, in principle, the introduction of a Bill in Parliament to amend the Public Procurement Act No. 8 of 2020. She said Government had noticed that the current law had some weaknesses such as low participation of both local and citizen bidders due to various restrictions, multiple and unnecessary approval levels.
Mr Kasanda said Cabinet decided that the new law should address the red tape, and limitations in oversight in order to enhance the efficiency and benefits accruing to citizens from public procurement.
