Government has proposed to spend 167.3 billion Kwacha in the 2023 financial year, themed ‘stimulating growth for improved livelihoods.’
The 2023 proposed budget is 28 billion Kwacha less than the 2022 National Budget that amounted to 195 billion Kwacha, after a supplementary budget.
Among the highlights announced by Minister of Finance and National Planning, Dr. Situmbeko Musokotwane in parliament, is increased Pay as You Earn (PAYE) exemption threshold from 4,500 kwacha to 4,800 kwacha.
Dr. Musokotwane says government will employ 4,500 teachers as well as 3,000 health personnel.
He has also announced the reintroduction of meal allowances for students in all institutions of higher learning.
By Shem Malinda