The Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection (JCTR) has raised concerns about the Zambian government’s commitment to improving the livelihoods of the poor, amidst the continued increasing cost of living.
Based on the JCTR’s Basic Needs and Nutrition Basket (BNNB) survey for a family of five seen by the Zambian Business Times – ZBT, there has been an increase in the cost of living for households in Lusaka which now stands at K9,556 representing a rise of K398 compared to December 2023, which stood at K9,157.
These significant increases were observed in both food prices and non-food categories, worsening the challenges faced by individuals and families, especially in the low-income category.
JCTR says the rising cost of living poses a threat to human dignity which underscores the significance and worth of every individual and questions the country’s commitment to the 8th National Development Plan, which aims to improve the livelihoods of the poor.
The report indicates that this also expresses concern over the escalating burden of living expenses, which directly undermines the human core values adding that it is crucial to recognize that having a life where individuals can afford their basic needs such as food, clothing, and shelter is a cardinal aspect of human dignity as the suffering goes to the core of an individual’s sense of self-worth and questions the country’s commitment to improving the livelihoods of the poor as spelled out in the 8th National Development Plan.
“We have witnessed how moments of crisis like Coronavirus (COVID-19) and the Cholera epidemic exacerbate pre-existing inequalities, pushing already struggling communities to a far worse position. The significance of prices for goods cannot be overstated, as they directly affect families’ access to basic essentials. These families often find themselves grappling with difficult choices, having to decide between putting food on their tables and addressing other urgent necessities.
“This predicament creates hardship and undermines the dignity of individuals, as they are denied their right to lead fulfilling lives that honor their values and that enable them to thrive.” The JCTR indicated.
“Furthermore, the unpredictable rainfall patterns witnessed in recent months pose an additional threat to an already dire situation, which might result in increased food prices.
It is crucial for the Zambian government to recognize the urgency at hand and to begin formulating strategies for providing relief for its citizens, especially the poor, who are already burdened by the high cost of living.
Given the severity of this situation, it is crucial that immediate and decisive steps are taken to address both the escalating living costs, made worse by a complex array of issues, with the most pressing being energy (fuel costs) and foreign exchange risks due to the nation’s dependence on imports.
