Cost of living in Lusaka drops

The cost of living for a family of five in Lusaka as measured by the Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection (JCTR) Basic Needs and Nutrition Basket for the month of August 2023 reduced by K34 from K9, 301 in July to K9, 267.34.

The reduction has been attributed to the reduction in prices of vegetables, cooking oil and soya pieces.

JCTR Social and Economic Development Programme Manager Muchimba Siamachoka says despite the reduction in the basket, the research also revealed an increase in prices of food items such as roller mealie meal, rice, cassava flour and milk.

According to Phoenix News, Siamachoka says JCTR observes that the cost of living in the country remains high and government has yet to give a clear roadmap for addressing this challenge.

She adds that the centre remains concerned about the lack of more stringent measures to improve the cost of living.