In a significant milestone, Luapula Province has launched 8 out of 12 Integrated Development Plans (IDPs), a move aimed at boosting development and addressing environmental challenges. The achievement was made possible with the assistance of GIZ, a German development agency.
The launch of the IDPs is in line with the Regional and Planning Act No. 5 of 2015, which requires each district to have a comprehensive development plan.
In launching the documents, the Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, Garry Nkombo said the absence of key documents such as the IDPs had devastating effects on the development of communities including uncontrolled development and environmental degradation.
He added that the Urban and Regional Planning Act, 2015 requires that all districts should have documents such as the IDPs which are important in the effort to avert the effects of environmental change.
“I am happy to launch the IDPs for the 8 districts out of 12. While we await the conclusion of IDPs for Chembe, Milenge, Chipili, and Lunga districts who have already made notable progress as well. But be sure to conclude within the set timelines” he said.
Nkombo further stated that the production and subsequent launch of the IDPs is a significant step towards planned development and will help to arrest haphazard development thereby promoting sustainable planning for future generations.
