Council Secretary

Institutional Management

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MR.DULANI PHIRI
Council Secretary

Institution Management performs executive functions for the council, including roles associated with His Worship, the Council Chairperson and the Council Secretary. Units that report directly to the executive head include; Public Relations, ICT, Procurement, Legal and Internal Audit.

The Office of the Council Secretary

The Council Secretary, serving as the institution’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), oversees the Local Authority’s day-to-day operations and leads the delivery of developmental programs within the district. The current Council Secretary at Mwense Town Council is Mr. Dulani Phiri.

Internal Audit Unit

The Internal Audit Section is crucial for maintaining operational integrity within the Local Authority. This section develops and implements checks and controls, conducts risk assessments, and oversees management procedures at both policy and operational levels. The Unit conducts regular audits to ensure compliance with existing legislation and improve operational efficiency. The Unit compiles audit findings into comprehensive reports, which it presents to the executive head of the Local Authority and the Audit Committee for review and action.

 

Legal Unit.

This Unit provides comprehensive legal services to the Council. It ensures that the Local
Authority operates within the framework of the law and safeguards the Institution’s legal interests. Its key functions include:

  • Offering legal opinions and guidance on policy, contracts, land issues, and administrative matters.
  • Drafting and reviewing legal documents including contracts, memoranda of understanding, and by-laws.
  • Representing the council in legal proceedings and disputes.
  • Supporting enforcement of council regulations and aiding in dispute resolution involving community or institutional matters.

This unit is the legal backbone of the council, helping to mitigate risks and uphold lawful
governance.

Procurement Unit

 The Procurement Section, a critical component of the institution, oversees and manages all procurement processes. This section ensures that all purchases of goods and services comply with established policies, legislation, and procedures, promoting transparency, fairness, and cost-effectiveness. Regular compliance controls verify adherence to procurement guidelines and identify areas for improvement. The Procurement Section plays a vital role in supporting the institution’s operations and strategic ob

Public Relations Unit 

 The Public Relations Unit serves as a cornerstone of the Local Authority’s engagement strategy, ensuring transparent, timely and strategic communication between the council and its citizens. As the official voice and representative of the institution, the unit is entrusted with fostering trust, accountability and collaboration through proactive relationship-building with diverse stakeholders.

        Core Responsibilities

 The unit spearheads the development and implementation of integrated communication strategies designed to inform, educate, and engage the public. This includes monitoring and analyzing public sentiment, perceptions and feedback to guide the council’s outreach initiatives. By leveraging both traditional and digital media platforms—spanning print, electronic and social channels—the unit addresses information gaps, promotes transparency, and drives awareness of the council’s policies, projects and operational priorities. 

Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Unit

The ICT Unit drives the council’s digital transformation agenda. It ensures that all departments are technologically enabled to serve the public efficiently. The unit handles:

Installation, maintenance, and upgrading of the council’s hardware and software systems.

Administration of network infrastructure and internet services across departments.

Support for e-Governance platforms such as payroll systems, the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) tracking tools, and online service portals, data security, backup systems, and disaster recovery plans.

Technical support to users and training of staff in basic ICT skills. With increasing demand for digital services, the IT Unit is instrumental in modernizing council operations and enhancing public access to services.

 

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