Higher Taxes Should Not Make Life Harder For Zambians — James Mugala

Environmental and Human Rights Activist James Edwin Mugala has warned that Zambia’s economic growth ambitions could be undermined if increased taxation leaves workers with less disposable income, raises the cost of essential services and discourages businesses from investing and creating jobs.

Commenting on the Government’s Grow Zambia Agenda, Mugala said national development should not be measured solely by how much revenue the Government collects, but by improvements in people’s everyday lives. He argued that success should be reflected in sustainable jobs, affordable healthcare, quality education, reduced poverty and greater economic opportunities, particularly in rural communities.

Mugala acknowledged that taxation is necessary to finance public services and national development but cautioned that excessive or poorly designed taxes could make it more difficult for citizens and businesses to participate in the economy. He called for a tax system that encourages production, innovation and employment while ensuring that revenue collection remains socially fair and economically sustainable.

He challenged policymakers to consider whether Zambia is building an economy in which ordinary people and businesses can prosper or one in which the cost of economic participation continues to rise. Mugala maintained that taxation should be a tool for inclusive development rather than an obstacle to improving the living standards of Zambians.