Opposition Citizens First (CF) aspiring Member of Parliament for Nkundalila Constituency in Serenje District, Bangwe Naviley Chisenga, has appealed to the Joining Forces Alliance on Children and other development partners to help construct a 1×5 classroom block for the children of Katota in Mweshe Ward so they can access secondary education.
Bangwe cried upon learning that many bright children in Katota are forced into early marriages because they cannot progress beyond Grade Seven, due to the geographical marginalisation of their community.
He warned that continued neglect of rural education could take decades to reverse if communities rely solely on government intervention, stressing the need for the development sector to realign its priorities.
Bangwe expressed shock that government has allocated huge resources to increase the number of constituencies, yet claims to have no funds to invest in the future of children like those in Katota.
He cited Katota as an example that despite increased Constituency Development Fund allocations, ordinary citizens have seen no tangible benefit, with resources largely captured by politically connected cadres.
Bangwe pledged that if NGOs and government fail to act, he would consider using his personal resources to respond to the community’s cry once elected as MP.
He further highlighted that teachers in Katota are struggling without housing, forcing many to live in poor conditions or commute long distances, which undermines the quality of education and discourages qualified staff from staying.
Bangwe urged the people of Katota not to lose hope, assuring them that Citizens First will be in power this year to address pressing challenges such as water shortages, poor mobile phone network, and the stalled health facility project.
He emphasised the need to expedite completion of the health facility which has taken too long.
Bangwe stressed that investment in classrooms, teacher housing, water supply and health services would not only reduce dropout rates and early marriages but also break the cycle of poverty, empower families and create a comprehensive child-friendly environment.
He committed to transparency and accountability, promising regular progress reports and involvement of community leaders to ensure donor funds are used effectively.
