Lusaka Food Basket Rises to K11,844 as Food Prices Increase
The cost of living for an average family of five in Lusaka has increased to K11,844.63 in February, up from K11,365.09 in January, according to the latest Basic Needs and Nutrition Basket (BNNB) released by the Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection (JCTR).
The rise was mainly driven by an increase in the prices of essential food items, which climbed from K4,604.43 in January to K5,089.75 in February. The organisation noted that the increase was largely influenced by a sharp rise in the cost of fruits, particularly apples and oranges, which jumped from K17.14 to K46.44 per kilogramme.
Meanwhile, the total cost of essential non-food items recorded a slight decrease to K6,754.88, compared to K6,760.67 in January. However, the marginal reduction offered little relief to households already struggling with rising food expenses.
According to JCTR, February falls within the country’s lean season, a period typically marked by reduced household food stocks, lower market supply, and higher transport and distribution costs. These seasonal factors tend to push prices of fresh produce and protein-rich foods upward.
The organisation noted that the situation also reflects deeper structural challenges within Zambia’s food system, including limited irrigation coverage, inadequate storage facilities, high post-harvest losses and a heavy dependence on rain-fed agriculture.
Although some commodities such as cooking oil, onions and tomatoes recorded slight price reductions during the month, the decreases were not sufficient to offset the broader increase in food costs.
JCTR warned that rising food prices have serious implications for household welfare, particularly for low-income families who spend a large portion of their income on food. As prices rise, households may be forced to reduce meal frequency, switch to less nutritious food options or cut spending on other essential needs such as healthcare, education and transport.
“These coping strategies often lead to reduced dietary diversity and increase the risk of micronutrient deficiencies, particularly among children and women,” the organisation stated.
The centre emphasised the need for Zambia to address structural supply constraints in order to strengthen food security and protect vulnerable households.
While programmes such as the Farmer Input Support Programme (FISP) remain important in helping farmers access agricultural inputs, JCTR said they must be complemented by long-term investments in sustainable agriculture.
The organisation called for increased investment in irrigation systems, storage facilities, mechanisation and agricultural extension services to help reduce seasonal shortages. It also encouraged crop diversification beyond maize to include legumes and horticultural crops, which could help stabilise prices of protein and vegetable products.
JCTR further urged policymakers to prioritise human dignity and the welfare of vulnerable households as the country works towards economic stability.
“Policy interventions must translate into tangible improvements in the daily lives of ordinary families,” the organisation said, adding that national development efforts should ensure that no household is left behind.
The statement was issued by Ms Lukwesa Musonda, Acting Social and Economic Development Programme Manager at the Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection.
