AIDC says projected 2% growth by 2028 insufficient

The Alternative Information and Development Centre (AIDC) has rejected the 2026 national budget, saying the projected 2% growth by 2028 is insufficient.

The group argues the budget prioritises investor-friendly policies over improving the lives of the poor.

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AIDC spokesperson Busi Mtabane said it offers no bold plan for permanent, decent jobs amid a structural unemployment crisis.

She added that government claims of 2.5 million jobs are largely temporary, insecure, and poorly paid.

“The current unemployment rate is four times higher than the national development plan's 2030 target.  The government points to 2.5 million work opportunities created through the presidential employment stimulus, but these are largely temporary.”