MWAMBAZI HIGHLIGHTS KEY PRIORITIES IN K284.8 BILLION 2027 NATIONAL BUDGET
Bwana Mkubwa Member of Parliament Warren Chisha Mwambazi has highlighted key priorities in the K284.8 billion 2027 National Budget, calling for effective implementation and accountability to ensure that ordinary Zambians benefit from government allocations
Mr Mwambazi said the budget, presented by Finance and National Planning Minister Dr Situmbeko Musokotwane under the theme “Grow Zambia: From Stabilisation to Unlocking Opportunities, Creating Jobs and Improving Livelihoods for All,” prioritised production, employment creation and improved public service delivery.
He noted that Government had increased the national Constituency Development Fund (CDF) allocation from K6.2 billion to approximately K9 billion, although the allocation per constituency would remain at K40 million.
On infrastructure, Mr Mwambazi said K18.1 billion had been allocated towards constructing, upgrading and rehabilitating 787 kilometres of roads countrywide.
He further highlighted allocations of K38.2 billion to education and K30.3 billion to health, with plans to construct six universities, recruit 3,125 health personnel and complete major health projects.
On agriculture, he said Government intended to transition the Farmer Input Support Programme into an agricultural loan scheme in 2027.
Mr Mwambazi also welcomed the proposed K5 billion loan guarantee scheme for small businesses, saying it could expand entrepreneurship and employment opportunities.
“The success of these commitments will depend on effective implementation, responsible use of public resources and accountability at every level,” he stated.
He added that the proposed increase in Social Cash Transfer payments and additional electricity generation capacity were important measures towards improving livelihoods.
“As representatives of the people, our responsibility is not only to examine the allocations but also to follow through,” he stressed.
Mr Mwambazi said the ultimate measure of the budget would be its impact on communities, particularly through better livelihoods, improved services and opportunities for young people.