Opinion Opinion
Fiscal discipline no excuse to neglect public needs
Fiscal discipline must not come at the expense of the public's basic needs. As the 2027 Budget consultations begin, the real test of economic stability is whether it improves the daily lives of ordinary Zambians.
Picture: Times of Zambia
Zambia’s pursuit of economic stability must ultimately be measured not only by figures in the national accounts, but by the difference it makes in the daily lives of ordinary citizens.
As Finance and National Planning Minister Situmbeko Musokotwane rightly observes, stronger fiscal discipline must translate into tangible improvements in education, healthcare, infrastructure, social protection and employment opportunities.
This is an important reminder that economic stability is a means to an end, not an end in itself. Lower inflation, responsible debt management and improved revenue collection matter, but their greatest value lies in creating conditions for better livelihoods and sustainable national development.
The release of K14.6 billion by the Treasury in September demonstrates the competing demands on public finances. Of this amount, K5.4 billion went towards the public service wage bill and related obligations, while another K5.4 billion was allocated to debt servicing and clearing domestic arrears. These commitments alone accounted for K10.8 billion, leaving limited room for other priorities.
Nevertheless, the allocation of K1.8 billion to transfers, subsidies and social benefits demonstrates the importance of protecting vulnerable households. This included K435.8 million for the Social Cash Transfer Programme and K200 million for the Food Security Pack Programme. Such interventions are essential for families struggling to meet basic needs, particularly amid economic and climate-related pressures.
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However, the effectiveness of public spending must be assessed beyond the amounts released. Citizens need functioning hospitals, adequately equipped schools, reliable water supplies, accessible roads and public services that respond to their needs. Government must therefore strengthen monitoring and accountability to ensure that every kwacha allocated delivers measurable value.
The ongoing consultations on the 2027 National Budget provide an opportunity to address these concerns. Stakeholders should press for realistic priorities, transparent expenditure and a fair balance between debt obligations, public investment and social protection. Revenue measures, including the restoration of excise duty on fuel, must also be accompanied by clear accountability for how the resulting resources support essential services.
Fiscal discipline should not become an excuse for neglecting urgent public needs. Equally, spending beyond the country’s means would undermine the stability Zambia has been working to achieve. The challenge is to maintain a careful balance between financial responsibility and the needs of citizens.
Ultimately, the success of the 2027 Budget should be judged by whether it creates jobs, strengthens public services and improves household welfare. Economic stability must open the door to shared prosperity, ensuring that the benefits of national growth reach communities across Zambia.
Source: Times of Zambia — Read more
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