The cost of living in Lusaka continues to rise, according to the Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection. Their measurement of the basic needs and nutrition basket for a family of five in October 2023 shows an increase of Kk148.70 from K9,146.06 in September 2023 to K9,294.76.
For example, roller mealie meal, a staple food item, has increased from K217.14 per 25kg bag to K229 per 25kg bag. Additionally, the price of beans has risen from K35.21 per kg to K48.55. These escalations in commodity prices are contributing to the overall increase in the cost of living in Lusaka.
Muchimba Siamachoka, the Social and Economic Development Programme Manager at JCTR, emphasizes the importance of closely monitoring factors such as inflation, fluctuating commodity prices, and overall economic conditions. These factors have significantly influenced the pricing dynamics in the country.
To address this issue, Ms. Siamachoka recommends that the government take immediate action by distributing maize grain directly to communities through the food reserve agency. This short-term measure aims to alleviate the impact of the increasing cost of mealie meal, a staple food in the region.
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