K3.1 Billion Spent on Social Protection in December

The government allocated an impressive K3.1 billion for social protection programs in December 2024, constituting just over 13% of total government spending in the final month of the year.

The disbursements , which included K1.1 billion for social cash transfer, demonstrates the UPND government’s commitment to protecting vulnerable people in Zambia during this unprecedented period of drought and as the country continues to slowly emerge from the debt crisis precipitated by former President Edgar Lungu while he was in office.

Increasing social protection is a long-term priority for the Hichilema government, which in October increased Constituency Development fund spending to K36.1 million per constituency – its highest level on record.

According to Finance Minister Situmbeko Musokotwane, a further K3.9 billion was spent last month on public sector wages. In total, K23.1 billion was spent in December, with debt servicing making up K12.7 billion. This figure is expected to fall as the debt agreements secured by President Hichilema with foreign lenders take effect in the coming months. 

Meanwhile, K2.4 billion was released to fund developmental programs and general operations, while K1 billion was invested in essential infrastructure projects to foster long-term growth.  

“This allocation is not just numbers; it’s a relfection of our priorities and a call to action. Every kwacha spent must translate into meaningful change for Zambians,” Dr Musokotwane explained.