More than Just Driving: How Mufulira’s CDF Bursary Was Hijacked

By Kennedy Mbewe | MakanDay Investigates

A recent MakanDay investigation has uncovered glaring irregularities in the allocation of the 2025 Constituency Development Fund (CDF) driving bursaries in Mufulira, pointing to possible corruption, political influence, and data tampering.

Records reviewed from the three constituencies—Kankoyo, Kantanshi, and Mufulira Central—show that two driving schools, Libati and Road Range, enrolled 542 out of 589 students selected for government-sponsored lessons, representing 92% of all beneficiaries. The remaining four schools shared only 47 students (8%).

The investigation raises serious concerns about potential favouritism and abuse of public funds, with allegations that the two favoured institutions have ties to the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND). Both schools have denied any political affiliation.

Other Key Findings

Alleged Political Influence & Kickbacks

MakanDay established that Road Range Driving School is operating from a property owned by Councillor Garry Kawayo, who also faces allegations of occasionally serving as an instructor—a claim he denies. Multiple sources allege that councillors and members of the Ward Development Committees (WDCs) demanded bribes in exchange for directing students to specific driving schools.

Data Tampering & Ghost Entries

A random check of over 50 contact numbers linked to student guardians revealed fake or inactive numbers, individuals unaware their details had been used, a student falsely listed as an orphan who was actually the son of a WDC member, and a man listed as guardian for two students he did not know. One man found himself listed as guardian for two unknown students.

Mixed Reactions from Officials

Reactions from officials were mixed, with Mufulira Central CDF Chairperson Andrew Msiska admitting there may have been an oversight, while Kantanshi CDF Chairperson Fr Francis Mufwaya, a Catholic priest, dismissed the allegations as unfounded, and Council PR Manager Thandiwe Tembo maintained that all allocations followed official guidelines and no formal complaints had been received.

Training Capacity Concerns

Students raised concerns about delays in their training, citing a shortage of vehicles, with some schools reportedly operating with only one truck. Despite the programme being fully funded by the CDF, some students alleged they were asked to pay an additional K2,000 to complete their lessons.

Whistleblower Account

A sidelined driving school owner alleged that some Ward Development Committee (WDC) members and councillors demanded kickbacks, offering to channel students to his institution in exchange for payment. He said he reported the matter to then-Minister of Local Government Garry Nkombo, which led to a temporary suspension of the CDF programme in Mufulira, although no lasting reforms were implemented.