Lusaka Sees Small Drop in Cost of Living for November 2024
The Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection (JCTR) has reported a slight reduction in the cost of living for November 2024. The Basic Needs and Nutrition Basket (BNNB) for a family of five decreased to K10,393.16 from K10,408.88 in October, marking a marginal drop of K15.72.
This decrease is attributed to a seasonal reduction in the prices of key food items, particularly fruits, which fell from K19.41 per kg to K13.11 per kg. Other essential items like mealie meal, Kapenta, vegetables, and onions also saw price declines, easing the overall financial burden on families.
However, the relief from reduced food prices was tempered by significant price increases in other areas. The cost of charcoal surged from K418 in October to K450 per 90kg bag, exacerbating energy costs for households. Additionally, pounded groundnuts, tomatoes, and chicken saw price hikes, further straining family budgets.
Despite some favorable trends, the cost of living remains high, especially in urban areas, where poverty levels are rising faster compared to rural regions. The 2022 Living Conditions Monitoring Survey highlighted that stagnant incomes and unreliable energy supply are putting pressure on families, making essential goods and services increasingly unaffordable.
In light of these challenges, JCTR has called for urgent government action to address the cost of living. Key recommendations include promoting alternative energy sources to reduce reliance on charcoal, supporting local food production through value addition initiatives, and expanding shock-sensitive social protection measures to protect vulnerable households from price fluctuations.
The JCTR continues to advocate for policies that promote economic justice, social equity, and sustainable development for all Zambians, urging stronger government action to ensure a resilient and inclusive economy.
