More than 200,000 ineligible individuals were found to have improperly benefited from the 2024/2025 Farmer Input Support Programme (FISP), according to Cornelius Mweetwa, the Minister of Information and Media. This revelation follows the findings of a forensic audit conducted by the government to identify irregularities within the subsidy program.
At a press briefing in Lusaka, Mr. Mweetwa, who also serves as the Chief Government Spokesperson, shared that the audit uncovered a significant number of civil servants and other formally employed individuals among the beneficiaries, despite their ineligibility for the program.
“The audit revealed that over 7,000 civil servants were benefiting from FISP, alongside more than 150,000 other ineligible individuals,” Mr. Mweetwa stated. Additionally, he noted that over 1,000 individuals were found to be receiving support from both FISP and the Food Security Pack, a program intended to assist vulnerable households.
In response to the findings, the government has moved to rectify the situation by replacing more than 200,000 ineligible beneficiaries with new, qualifying farmers who meet the program’s criteria.
Mr. Mweetwa also highlighted that the Ministry of Justice is set to announce the roadmap for constitutional reforms on Wednesday, as part of broader efforts by the government to enhance transparency and good governance in its programs.
The findings of the audit raise significant concerns about potential inefficiencies and misuse of public resources within social welfare programs. While the government has yet to confirm whether further investigations or legal actions will be taken, the results underscore the need for greater oversight and accountability in the distribution of public funds.