MPs demanded transparency on sugar tax spending

A multimillion-dollar sugar tax is under fire in Parliament, and MPs want receipts on where the cash actually went.

MPs question sugar tax spending

• Surrender, Kapoikilu pressed the Finance Ministry in the National Assembly.
• Lawmakers want clarity on how over US$30 million was used.
• Sugar levy began on 1 January 2024.
• Tax was pitched to fund treatment for lifestyle diseases.

Tax rate changes and collections

• The initial rate stood at US$0.02 per gram.
• February 2024 saw it cut to US$0.001 per gram.
• Authorities reported more than US$30 million collected.
• Industry objections triggered the reduction.

Government response in Parliament

• Kudakwashe Mnangagwa defended the existing policy.
• The deputy minister said funds are ring-fenced for cancer care.
• Health Ministry guides equipment purchases.
• He insisted that some proceeds have already been allocated.

Hospital concerns and transparency calls

• Surrender Kapoikilu cited issues at Mpilo Central Hospital.
• The radiotherapy unit reportedly has not treated patients since 2022.
• Clifford Hlatshwayo demanded a detailed disclosure.
• MPs argued taxpayers deserve full accountability.