JCTR has questioned govt capability to provide K2.3 billion for dismantling of domestic arrears

Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection [JCTR] has questioned where government will get the 2.3 billion kwacha allocated in the 2020 national budget for dismantling domestic arrears.

JCTR Policy Analyst Innocent Ndashe has told QTV news that this will be a challenge for government especially that it is targeting to increase domestic revenue mobilization.

Mr Ndashe notes that the Finance Minister acknowledged in his budget speech that the Country will record a reduction in the mining sector, wondering where the money will come from to offset the arrears owed to local suppliers.

He states that as long as load shedding continues, it will be difficult for government to offset these arrears because there will be nowhere to look for the funds to actualize its plans.

Mr. Ndashe is also concerned that with the effects of climate change, the agriculture sector will contribute too little to the growth of the economy.

Mr Ndashe however, states that government’s decision to deal with arrears owed to local suppliers is a welcome move noting that if the money is made available, it has great potential to spur economic development.