Mwanza District has implemented the Local Revenue Management Information System (LORMIS) to improve efficiency in revenue collection, addressing challenges associated with manual processes. This digital solution has enhanced transparency, increased revenue significantly, and built trust among local traders. Improvements in operations benefit not just financial tracking but also public service delivery in the district.
Mwanza District, a significant trade link for Malawi, has improved its revenue collection through the implementation of the Local Revenue Management Information System (LORMIS), with support from the UNDP. Previously reliant on manual tracking, the system faced challenges such as errors and lack of transparency. The digital transformation allows for efficient tracking of revenue sources like market fees, licenses, and entry charges.
District Commissioner Martha Margareta Sineta noted that the new system has significantly impacted financial management, increasing revenue from K63 million in 2022-2023 to K129 million in 2024-2025. “Every kwacha collected is fully accounted for, enabling the council to allocate revenue towards community development,” she stated. This digital shift has enhanced oversight and accountability in revenue collection, reducing errors and fraud.
The system has not only bolstered the district’s financial independence but also gained the trust of traders who now see their payments directly benefiting public services. Vendors, such as Joyce Nanyaka, appreciate the convenience and efficiency of the system, reporting timely council responses and improved market conditions.
Cross-border truck drivers like Brian Mussa find that the faster processing of payments at pay points conserves valuable time. Revenue collectors like Mercy Umali experience improved efficiency, with all transactions traceable by supervisors from the council office, thus reducing mismanagement risks.
Fostino Laison, the LORMIS developer, notes the system’s scalability with an Android application supportive of e-ticketing and business registration. This digital tool is more than a financial instrument; it cultivates a foundation for sustainable economic growth in Mwanza, fostering trust and efficiency across its markets and services.
Overall, Mwanza’s strategic embrace of a digital revenue management system has transformed its financial landscape, enabling secure, transparent transactions that improve public service delivery and community investment.
Mwanza District’s adoption of the LORMIS has revolutionized its revenue collection strategy, significantly boosting financial independence and public trust. The transition from manual processes to a digital system has led to increased efficiency, transparency, and accountability, ultimately benefiting the entire community. Enhanced operations for vendors and revenue collectors reflect a sustainable approach toward economic growth and improved public service delivery in the district.
Original Source: www.undp.org
