Q FM Africa's Modern Radio
NGOCC Board Chairperson Sara Longwe
The Non Governmental Organisations Coordinating Council (NGOCC) has observed that poverty levels in the country are increasing every day.
NGOCC Board Chairperson Sara Longwe says the move by the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) for tenants and landlords to register for withholding tax, the increase in fuel prices which will translate into essential commodities getting more expensive will contribute largely to the poverty levels going up.
Ms. Longwe notes that the increase in the cost of living will in turn put a burden on the women who have the duty to make sure that their families are fed, well clothed, go to school and have decent livelihoods.
She states that while the Patriotic Front government had promised during the campaigns to reduce the high cost of living in the country, what is prevailing is contrary to the promises made to the people of Zambia.
Ms. Longwe says it is important that government keeps its promise and reduces the levels of poverty in the country.
She further states that there is need for government working together with relevant stakeholders find ways of reducing the cost of living so that the poor majority Zambians can afford the basic necessities of life.