28/05/2026
PRESS STATEMENT
For Immediate Release
ZEHEST Commends Ministry of Finance on Budget Submissions Call, Urges Release of Issues and Evaluation Papers for Informed Public Participation
Lusaka, 28th May 2026 – The Zambian Empowerment Hub for Entrepreneurship and Skills Training – ZEHEST, commends the Ministry of Finance and National Planning for opening the 2027 National Budget submission process to the public.
Inviting citizens, civil society, academia, and the private sector to submit proposals is a positive step toward inclusive and transparent budgeting. It strengthens ownership of the national development agenda and ensures that the budget reflects the real needs of Zambians.
However, for meaningful participation to occur, citizens need access to the same information that guides government decision-making.
ZEHEST therefore calls on the Ministry of Finance to urgently release:
1. The Budget Issues Paper– outlining the economic context, fiscal constraints, and policy priorities for 2027.
2. Mid-year Budget Performance and Evaluation Papers– showing how funds allocated in 2025/2026 have been utilized, what results were achieved, and where gaps remain.
Without these documents, public submissions risk being speculative rather than evidence-based. Release of the papers will enable citizens to make informed, targeted recommendations that improve value for money and service delivery.
“Budget making is not a closed process. When citizens understand the trade-offs and performance data, they contribute solutions, not just demands. Transparency in budget information is the foundation of accountability and trust,” said Mr Clarence Moonde Muzyamba, Executive Director, Founder & Visionary Leader of ZEHEST.
ZEHEST stands ready to mobilize youth, entrepreneurs, and community groups to engage constructively in the budget process once the necessary information is made public.
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