KIGALI - A delegation of Malawian government officials who have just concluded a week-long study tour in Rwanda,  were impressed by the country’s policies, saying that the visit exceeded their expectations.

The tour was conducted to facilitate the restructuring of the decentralization system and the upcoming elections of the central government in Malawi.

The delegation, led by the Permanent Secretary in the Malawian Ministry of Local Government and rural development, Patrick H.Kabambe, wanted to learn from Rwanda’s experience, which lessons would be incorporated in their on-going restructuring process.

According to Kabambe, the delegation was impressed by MINALOC’s budgetary policies for the districts and cultural efforts to spur development through community work (Umuganda), which he promised to export to his home country.

"I had not slashed in 20 years but today (Saturday), during community work I enjoyed the activity and this is a lesson learnt.” Kabambe said. "You have exceeded our expectations and we have gathered enough material to present to our government.”

The Minister of Local Government, James Musoni, bid farewell to the delegation, expressing optimism that what they learnt in Rwanda would be useful in Malawi.

MINALOC officials were invited to Malawi for the ceremony that will see into office Malawian local government officials, to be elected in the forthcoming polls.

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