• This is compared to the March basic needs and nutrition basket which stood at K10, 603.
• The price of 40 kg of vegetables reduced to K511.97 from K571.93.
• The persistently high cost of commodities in the market, as underscored by the basic needs and nutrition basket, remains a pressing concern.

Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection (JCTR) has disclosed that the cost of living for a family of five in Lusaka reduced by K255.14 in April, 2024, and currently stands at K10, 348.

Centre Social & Economic Development Programme Manager, Muchimba Siamachoka, revealed in a statement that this is compared to the March basic needs and nutrition basket which stood at K10, 603.

Ms. Siamachoka attributed the decline in the basket to lower charcoal prices which dropped to K343.33 from K428.33 for a 90kg bag and a reduction in the cost of selected food items.

“Notably the price of 40 kg of vegetables reduced to K511.97 from K571.93 while the price of 1kg of fruits such as apples and oranges reduced to K37.12 from K43.23,” Ms. Siamachoka stated.

She however noted that the persistently high cost of commodities in the market, as underscored by the basic needs and nutrition basket, remains a pressing concern.

“This reality is particularly alarming amidst widespread unemployment, disproportionately impacting women and youth. Incomes remain stagnant while non-discriminatory taxes, such as Value Added Tax, continue to burden consumers,” she noted.

Ms. Siamachoka added that while the taxes serve as an important revenue source for the government, they must be implemented carefully to avoid disproportionately burdening certain groups, especially low income individuals and families.

She called on government to allocate funds to strengthen social safety nets aimed at supporting vulnerable populations, particularly women and youth affected by unemployment.

“Implement targeted support initiatives aimed at small businesses and entrepreneurship programs to not only stimulate economic growth but also to address the pervasive issue of limited access to finance,” she said.