The Zambia Institute for Policy Analysis and Research (ZIPAR) has called for stronger prioritisation of social sector spending as Zambia seeks to sustain economic recovery and protect vulnerable communities. Speaking during the launch of the 2026 Mid-Year Budget Analysis and Policy Brief in Lusaka, Mwaka Mukubesa, who is Director of Budget and Economic Affairs at […]
The Zambia Institute for Policy Analysis and Research (ZIPAR) has called for stronger prioritisation of social sector spending as Zambia seeks to sustain economic recovery and protect vulnerable communities.
Speaking during the launch of the 2026 Mid-Year Budget Analysis and Policy Brief in Lusaka, Mwaka Mukubesa, who is Director of Budget and Economic Affairs at the Ministry of Finance and National Planning, says it is important and valuable for the government to receive independent analysis through such reports.
Ms Mukubesa adds that independent research and analysis contributes towards informed policy-making and helps strengthen the country’s economic management.
ZIPAR Executive Director Zali Chikuba says the success of Zambia’s debt restructuring should not only be measured by improvements in public finances, but also weighed by how ordinary citizens are benefiting from increased access to essential services.
Mr Chikuba further explained that children must have access to quality education, healthcare, nutrition, safe water and effective social protection.
He said that ZIPAR wants Zambia to use the fiscal space created through debt relief to strengthen essential public services and ensure that economic recovery delivers tangible benefits for the next generation.
Meanwhile, UNICEF Representative Saja Abdullah noted that the Mid-Year Budget Analysis provides an important snapshot of budget performance halfway through the fiscal year.
Dr Abdullah said the analysis shows areas where progress is being made, while highlighting sectors requiring further attention, in order to ensure public resources reach the areas that matter most.
She said budget allocation must translate into functioning schools, quality healthcare, improved nutrition, safe water and sanitation and effective social protection.
