The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Budget and Finance says delays in the release of government funds are slowing the implementation of development projects in the Zambezi Region.
The committee has concluded its week-long oversight visit to the region, where it engaged the Zambezi Regional Council, local authorities and several government ministries.
The purpose of the visit was to assess whether public funds allocated to institutions are being used for their intended purposes and whether capital projects are being implemented as planned.
While the committee found no major concerns regarding the use of funds, it identified delays in the disbursement of budget allocations as one of the main factors affecting project implementation.
The acting committee chairperson, Werner Iita, explained that the government collects revenue throughout the financial year from sources such as value-added tax and income tax, meaning funds are released progressively rather than as a lump sum.
He says although this system is understandable, mechanisms should be improved to ensure ministries and regional councils receive funds on time to avoid delays in development projects.
"So those challenges, we have explained, and we will also engage our parliamentarians to such an extent that we should basically also transfer the money on time so that we cannot delay capital projects."
The committee also raised concerns over persistent staff shortages in several government institutions.
The Ministry of Home Affairs was cited as one of the departments operating with significantly fewer staff than its approved establishment, while the Ministry of Health, the Legal Assistance Centre and other institutions continue to experience vacant positions, particularly in rural areas.
Iita urged government ministries to advertise funded vacant posts without unnecessary delays.
"If it is budgeted, why can't we implement the budget? So there is no excuse that if a staff complement is a problem, let's implement or let's advertise the position which has been budgeted for so that our people can do the work perfectly."
He acknowledged that attracting professionals to rural areas remains difficult due to limited infrastructure and services but noted that government incentives such as bush allowances are intended to encourage public servants to accept postings in remote areas.
The committee says it will present its findings and recommendations to Parliament with the aim of improving budget implementation and public service delivery across the country.