Cash for work initiative gets K68.5 million, as domestic debt service gulps 31 billion

The government has allocated K68.5 million to the Cash for Work initiative, aimed at providing financial support to viable but vulnerable citizens impacted by the recent drought.

Finance and National Planning Minister, Situmbeko Musokotwane, announced the release on Monday in Lusaka, underscoring government’s commitment to addressing the challenges faced by citizens due to the drought.

“The Cash for Work Programme is targeted at putting money in the pockets of viable but vulnerable citizens, while engaging them in labor-intensive community projects,” Musokotwane said, reflecting on the August 2024 budget releases.

In addition, the ministry released K15.3 billion for public service delivery and developmental programmes.

This included K1.3 billion allocated for transfers and social benefits.

The budget breakdown showed K808.8 million spent on capital expenditure, K2.6 billion directed towards various government programs and general operations, and K5.2 billion for the public service wage bill.

To support the government’s goal of reducing indebtedness, K1.9 billion was allocated to clear arrears owed to suppliers of goods and services.

Additionally, K5.4 billion was released, with K31 billion going towards domestic debt service and K27.1 million for external debt service.

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