Prof SAASA optimistic about 2024 Budget

By Paul Shalala

Economist OLIVER SAASA says the 4.8 percent projection of economic growth contained in the 2024 National Budget is achievable.

Professor SAASA says the growth projection is achievable if the targets set in the budget are fully implemented.

Speaking at a post budget breakfast meeting in Lusaka organised by the Zambia Federation of Employers, Professor SAASA said the 2024 National Budget is comprehensively incremental compared to previous budgets.

And Professor SAASA said the Farmer Input Support Programme -FISP needs to be reformed so that there is growth in the agriculture sector.

He said FISP does not need to just focus on maize as the agriculture sector is wide.

Meanwhile, Professor SAASA has noted that the incentives which have been given to rural areas are good and will promote development.

He said rural areas are discriminated and have no access to basic services and jobs.

And Zambia Federation of Employers –ZFE- President MYRA NGOMA said the increase in taxable threshold for Pay As You Earn –PAYE- from K4, 800 to K5, 100 will increase disposable income at household level.

Mrs. NGOMA said the measure is likely to improve life and help workers have money.

Meanwhile, Zambia Congress of Trade Unions –ZCTU- President BLAKE MULALA said the pronouncement to employ more workers in the 2024 National Budget is commendable.

Mr. MULALA said government has shown willingness to create jobs as it has been employing civil servants to improve staffing levels.

Meanwhile, Zambia Chamber of Mines Chief Executive Officer SOKWANI CHILEMBO said the increase in the allocation for the Ministry of Mines is likely to increase exploration of minerals and grow the mining sector.

Others who spoke at the Post Budget Breakfast Meeting were Zambia Association of Manufacturers –ZAM- President ASHU SAGAR and Ernest and Young Chief Executive Officer PATRICK MAWIRE.