The Cost of Living as measured by the Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection, Basic Needs and Nutrition Basket, has increased to K10,603 for the month of March 2024, representing a 2.9% increase in comparison to the month of February.
In February 2024, the cost of living for a family of five living in Lusaka, as measured by JCTR Basic Needs and Nutrition Basket stood at K 10, 307.
JCTR Program Manager Social and Economic Development Muchimba Siamachoka says the almost K300 increase to the cost of living has been attributed to a hike in the prices of some food items such as a 25kg bag of roller mealie meal and fruits such as oranges and apples.
“It is worth noting that these changes reflect a combination of factors driving up the cost of living, including the impacts of El Niño-induced weather patterns on agricultural production, exchange rate depreciation affecting the cost of imported goods, fluctuating fuel prices, and other interconnected economic dynamics”, Ms. Siamachoka said in statement issued to RCV News in Lusaka today.
She highlighted the burden created on families trying to meet their fundamental needs that comes with each increase to the cost of living.
Ms. Siamachoka also encouraged households to grow food items such as vegetables whenever possible to supplement daily meals.
By Eva Hatontola
