Govt concerned over Councils debt

By Mark Ziligone

Government has expressed concern over the rising debt, pension arrears and unpaid taxes among councils.

Local Government and Rural Development Minister GARY NKOMBO says the rising debt poses a threat to local authorities’ financial stability and could hamper development if left unchecked.

Mr. NKOMBO says this why government has introduced key measures to address the growing debt and arrears faced by 116 local authorities.

He explains that among the measures is decentralisation and enhancing the financial autonomy of local governments to ensure stable service delivery.

Speaking during the launch of the Local Authorities’ debt and arrears report in Lusaka today, Mr. NKOMBO said government is also focusing on mobilising sustainable revenue and improving financial management at the local government level to address the problem.

And Zambia Institute for Policy Analysis Research-ZIPAR- Interim Executive Director ZALI CHIKUBA said according to the report, debt has remained a challenge for local authorities to deliver their services.

Meanwhile UNICEF Country representative PENELOPE CAMPBELL said the debt by local authorities has a huge impact on the children’s welfare and future.