The Local Government Accountability and Performance project (LGAP) says an improved working relationship between Members of Parliament (MPs) and Ward Councillors would go a long way in developing the country.
LGAP Technical Director Phaniso Kalua made the remarks on Thursday during the opening of a three day training for newly elected MPs and Ward Councillors in Zomba district.
Kalua said they considered it wise to embark on the training which according to him will improve performance of councils.
He said councils will only start registering significant development when councilors and MPs begin to embrace their roles and the need for team work.
Speaking on the sidelines of the training, Zomba District Council chairperson Wilson Alikhusa described the training as an eye opener.
Concurring with Alikhusa, MP for Zomba Changalume John Chikalimba thanked the ministry of local government and LGAP for the training saying it will not only teach them their roles but also help to transform the district.
It is expected that the training will address misunderstandings between MPs and Ward Councillors over developmental initiatives due to lack of knowledge concerning differences between the duties and functions of MPs and that of councillors.
The training has been made possible with funds from USAID and UKAID with an aim of drilling councilors across the country in the areas of local government systems, financial management in councils, leadership and development among others.
