Councilor Lekson Mwakasuluka of Lualaje Ward has questioned the allocation of the Chunya District Development Fund (CHUDEFU), calling on the council to explain how money from tobacco farming and gold mining is used in community projects.
He raised the issue during the second quarter council meeting for the 2025/2026 financial year, urging transparency in how funds reach local residents.
CHUDEFU collects contributions from mining and agriculture, intended to support community-driven development projects. Mwakasuluka asked how the funds are shared and what role councilors play in the process.
In response, Chunya District Council Executive Director, Tamim Kambona, confirmed that a levy of TZS 100 per gram of gold is collected and that funds from agriculture also contribute to the pool.
Kambona said allocations are based on community priorities, assessed by a committee chaired by the District Commissioner and including the council chairperson, executive director, and other members. Councilors are represented through the chairperson.
He assured that detailed records of fund allocations would be shared with Councilor Mwakasuluka after the relevant documents are reviewed.