Zambia Institute for Policy Analysis and Research (ZIPAR) says it expects the 2025 National Budget to be expansionary, striking a balance between fiscal consolidation and the need for targeted investments in critical sectors driving economic recovery.
This includes capitalizing on the ongoing recovery in the mining sector, enhancing social safety nets to protect the most vulnerable from the lingering impacts of health and climate-related shocks, and enhancing the macroeconomic environment and climate-related challenges.
Speaking during a media briefing in Lusaka today, ZIPAR Interim Executive Director, Zali Chikuba said the Institute expects a significant increase in health expenditure, aligning with global health objectives and aiming to improve overall health service performance.
“The budget is expected to prioritize operating costs for healthcare providers and medical supplies, addressing the increasing burden of non-communicable diseases,” said Mr. Chikuba.
Mr. Chikuba said ZIPAR also expects the 2025 National Budget to allocate more resources towards General Public Services due to the resumption of debt service obligations as this may signify fewer resources available for other priority development areas including energy, agriculture, and social sector spending.
“The 2025 National Budget should prioritize critical infrastructure development, including road infrastructure, railway links, and provincial airports,” said Mr. Chikuba.
He also said he expects to see a commitment to reduce reliance on the Farmer Input Support Program (FISP) as a measure to improve productivity in the agricultural sector due to the underlying inefficiencies associated with the framework.
By Margaret Mwanza
