Minister of local government and public works, Hon July Moyo has today officiated the launch of the Local Authority Digital System (LADS).
LADS is a digital platform designed to support efficiency in local authorities’ financial management systems, allows computation of the communities database, housing, public amenities billing points and rate payers information.
It also provides accurate and timely billing, enforce revenue collection through payment plans and produces timely financial reports.
Addressing delegates during the launch in Harare, Minister Moyo urged local authorities to utilise the LADS for the benefit of the community.
“We as the local authority must be the ones to demonstrate our willingness to work even overtime to achieve the objectives.
“This year the ministry of finance and myself have agreed that 10% of our devolution funds shall go to make sure that you undertake the work of knowing your fiscal capacity.” He said.
LADS was developed by the Harare Institute of Technology (HIT) and funded by the European Union.
Meanwhile, European Union Ambassador to Zimbabwe, His Excellence Timo Olkkonen said the European Union was happy to see that their funds were being used for their rightful purposes.
“Honorable minister I would also like to commend your ministry for your contribution to the development of this program. This gives us confidence that the resources we are availing are being used for their rightful purpose, contributing for the development of the local government sector and ultimately improving the lives of Zimbabweans.” He said.
Also gracing the occasion was Vice chancellor of the Harare Institute of Technology (HIT), Engineer Quinton Kanhukamwe.
Engineer Kanhukamwe said apart from providing local solutions, LADS is going to bring in foreign currency as they are planning to introduce it to SADC countries in the future.
