Tuesday, January 7, 2025

Government Allocates K23.1 Billion in December to Bolster Economy and Public Services

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The Zambian government disbursed an impressive K23.1 billion in December 2024, signaling its commitment to economic recovery, public service enhancement, and fiscal responsibility. This allocation comes at a critical time as the nation grapples with mounting debt, inflationary pressures, and the need for inclusive growth.

Minister of Finance and National Planning, Dr. Situmbeko Musokotwane, revealed that K3.9 billion of the funds went to public service wages, including allowances for diplomats serving in Zambia’s missions abroad. This underscores the government’s dedication to supporting its workforce despite tight fiscal conditions.

Debt servicing and arrears took the lion’s share of the allocation, with K12.7 billion committed. This reflects the government’s focus on maintaining financial credibility with creditors and addressing Zambia’s debt obligations, a move crucial for sustaining international confidence and securing future investment.

Social protection programs were not sidelined, as K3.1 billion was channeled to transfers and subsidies. Notably, K1.1 billion was earmarked for the Social Cash Transfer program, providing much-needed relief to vulnerable populations during challenging times.

An additional K2.4 billion was released to fund developmental programs and general operations, while K1 billion was invested in capital expenditure to support infrastructure projects essential for long-term economic growth.

Reviewing the December Budget Expenditure Report, Dr. Musokotwane urged public officials to maximize these funds by implementing programs effectively. He emphasized the need for all sectors to unite in fostering resilience, driving inclusive growth, and improving livelihoods in 2025 and beyond.

“This allocation is not just numbers; it’s a reflection of our priorities and a call to action. Every kwacha spent must translate into meaningful change for Zambians,” Dr. Musokotwane stated.

The December disbursement, detailed in a statement by the Office of the Secretary to the Treasury, highlights the government’s balanced approach to addressing pressing fiscal challenges while ensuring the wheels of development keep turning. It sends a strong message of intent as Zambia navigates its path toward economic stability and growth.A

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  2. These guys do not have a plan for ending the load-shedding.They can not even give a date when that is expected to end. Do they want us to give them solutions on this forum? I have one question for them, other than blaming the previous regime for the blackouts, what have they done to resolve the issue and who have they consulted?

    • I got on mini bus and after paying the fare the conductor gave me dirty torn bills as change. I refused. The conductor instead I get those notes. Then everyone on the bus started yelling ” ba mudala it’s a presidential directive that we should continue using and accepting such notes”. After some days I realized that indeed we not seeing fresh notes of late.

    • @ Deja Vu, it’s being said that someone told him that if he prints money he’ll raise inflation. Because he did home economics he’s misinterpreted the printing concept.

  3. All these headlines are just empty rhetoric in the absence of basic service delivery. Most parts of Kitwe have reportedly gone for 5 days without water and there’s no explanation from Nkana Water and Sanitation Company. There are already reports of cholera in Lusaka in the face of a higher traffic between the two cities it might even be in Kitwe now. The Minister is still scratching his balls waiting for an outbreak. What a country

    • Some utility companies have decided to increase meter charges by more than 200%. Reason I guess is that they can’t supply water due to Mr Zesco’s failure to power their pumps. So the only way to stay afloat is to hike meter charges.

  4. What about payment of terminal benefits and gratuity to former public service workers. This should be regarded as very urgent because if all decided to sue the Government would be Bankrupt.

  5. If 12.7 Billion went to debt servicing what figure do we stand at now ?
    It’s pointless throwing figures out to us if we cant see the result

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