Rising Cost of Living in Zambia Worsens Inequalities, JCTR Urges Strategic Interventions
The Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection (JCTR) has raised concerns over the increasing cost of living in Zambia, highlighting that the Basic Needs and Nutrition Basket (BNNB) for February 2025 now stands at ZMW 11,599.12 for a family of five in Lusaka, reflecting a ZMW 798.56 increase from January.
According to a statement issued by Ms. Lukwesa Musonda – Social and Economic Development Programme Officer, the rise in the BNNB is attributed to higher prices of essential food items such as oranges and apples (ZMW 56.47/kg from ZMW 15.68/kg), vegetables (ZMW 701.81 per 40kg from ZMW 555.35), and kapenta (ZMW 491.26/kg from ZMW 417.08/kg).
Additionally, charcoal prices increased to ZMW 497 per 90kg bag, primarily due to seasonal factors and increased demand driven by power outages.
With Zambia’s national average earnings at ZMW 5,369, JCTR warns that income levels remain stagnant, further straining households, particularly those in informal employment earning below ZMW 2,700. The widening gap between essential commodity prices and wages continues to exacerbate social and economic inequalities.
To address these challenges, JCTR has urged the government to:
✅ Expand food and nutrition assistance programs, including food security packs, subsidized maize, and home-grown school meals for low-income households.
✅ Increase sensitization on economic empowerment programs, such as CDF grants, CEEC loans, and skills training initiatives, to help marginalized communities generate income.
✅ Improve wages and enforce minimum pay standards to ensure salaries align with the cost of living, commending the government’s equal pay policy while advocating for continuous wage reviews.
JCTR emphasized that addressing economic inequalities is crucial for sustainable development, urging the government to prioritize inclusive growth strategies that improve the living conditions of all Zambians.
