15/10/2024
NDOLA CITY COUNCIL’S HEAVY-HANDED APPROACH LEAVES CITIZENS IN THE LURCH
…Condemning the Destruction of Mobile Money Booths
By Kepson J. Zimba, Member of the National Council Management Committee
In a shocking display of disregard for the welfare of its citizens, the Ndola City Council today dismantled and destroyed mobile money booths across the city.
This drastic action has left countless residents without access to essential financial services, exacerbating the already challenging economic conditions in Zambia.
As socialist party, we strongly condemn the Council's decision and calls for immediate reversal of this harmful policy.
Mobile money booths have become an integral part of Zambia's financial landscape, providing convenient and affordable services to millions.
By destroying these booths, the Ndola City Council has effectively disenfranchised its residents, particularly low-income earners and small business owners who rely on these services. This thoughtless act has:
1. Disrupted financial transactions, causing untold hardship and inconvenience.
2. Threatened the livelihoods of booth operators and their families.
3. Undermined economic growth and development in the region.
The Council's decision appears to have been made without consulting stakeholders or providing adequate justification. Citizens are caught off guard, left wondering why their legitimate sources of income are being destroyed.
This lack of transparency and accountability is unacceptable and erodes trust in local government.
Rather than destroying mobile money booths, the Ndola City Council should explore alternative solutions to address any concerns, such as:
1. Regulating booth operations to ensure compliance with city bylaws.
2. Collaborating with booth operators to improve infrastructure and services.
3. Providing support for entrepreneurs to establish formal businesses.
We urge the Ndola City Council to:
1. Immediately halt further destruction of mobile money booths.
2. Engage with stakeholders to develop inclusive, sustainable solutions.
3. Prioritize the welfare and economic empowerment of its citizens.
The destruction of mobile money booths is a stark reminder of the need for responsible governance. We demand that the Ndola City Council reverses its decision and works towards creating an environment that fosters economic growth, innovation, and social welfare. The people of Ndola deserve better.