JCTR Calls for Urgent Action to Address Rising Cost of Living in Zambia
The Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection (JCTR) has raised an urgent call to address the escalating cost of living in Zambia following the release of their latest Basic Needs and Nutrition Basket (BNNB) survey.
The survey reveals a concerning increase in the cost of essential goods, with the BNNB now standing at K10,575.93—a K133.48 rise from June.
Key commodities have seen significant price hikes, including a 25kg bag of roller mealie meal, which increased to K284.08 from K262.14. The price of 1kg of kapenta surged to K377.52 from K294.74, and 40kg of vegetables rose to K554.46 from K498.40. Bananas also saw a price increase, rising to K19.99 per kilogram from K17.35. Conversely, the price of a 90kg bag of charcoal decreased to K856.66 from K950.
The rising cost of kapenta, a crucial protein source for many households, is particularly concerning. Kapenta is a staple for large families and is valued for its high nutritional content and ease of preservation. The JCTR also highlighted growing concerns about vegetable prices and availability as the dry season approaches, which may exacerbate food security issues.
JCTR has noted a fluctuating trend in the cost of living, with year-to-date figures indicating significant limitations in controlling price changes. Factors contributing to these price increases include the depreciation of the kwacha, poor rainfall affecting food production, and seasonal food availability.
In response, JCTR has called for targeted and comprehensive actions to tackle the high cost of living. Their recommendations include:
- A Roadmap of Actions: The government is urged to outline a clear strategy to address the high cost of living, focusing on both income-based and cost-based approaches. This includes implementing employment creation programs and measures to control essential goods and services prices.
- Enhancing Food Production: JCTR recommends intensifying support for cultivating a variety of crops beyond maize and promoting winter food production initiatives to improve food security and sustainability.
- Evaluating Empowerment Programs: The effectiveness of existing empowerment programs should be evaluated to ensure they translate into tangible improvements in living conditions for beneficiaries.
The JCTR emphasized that the organization of society impacts individual lives and community participation. They call on the government to take decisive action to uphold citizens’ rights and dignity amid the rising cost of living.
