The Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection (JCTR) is calling on government officials to increase market monitoring and implement actions to stop price manipulation, since the cost of living keeps going up for regular Zambians.
During a press conference in Lusaka, JCTR Programmes Manager Edward Musosa mentioned that the Centre’s mid-year Basic Needs and Nutrition Basket (BNNB) study has shown worrying trends in the prices of essential goods. He highlighted the immediate need for policies that encourage inclusive economic participation and offer more support to smallholder farmers, who play a crucial role in food security.
According to JCTR’s findings, the cost of the BNNB for Lusaka is now K11,763—an increase of K962 from the same time last year. The report, which looks at the period from January to June 2025, points out significant price increases in both food and non-food items like charcoal, kapenta, and tomatoes.
JCTR’s Social and Economic Development Programme Officer, Lukwesa Musonda, said that the rising prices are due to market instability affecting various product categories.
At the same time, JCTR Deputy Director Fr. Boyd Kapyunga pointed out that even though Zambia’s overall economic indicators might be improving, the average citizens have not yet felt these benefits. He stressed that real change will only be experienced when these improvements lead to lower prices and better purchasing power for households.
