The cost of meeting basic household needs for a family of five in Lusaka has increased to K12,253.72 in October 2026, from K11,399.64 recorded in September.
This represents a monthly increase of K854.08, reflecting the growing pressure on households to afford essential goods and services amid rising commodity prices.
According to the Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection (JCTR), the increase was largely driven by rising prices of essential food items, particularly vegetables and bananas.
The cost of a 40-kilogramme bag of vegetables increased from K763.97 in September to K1,122.57 in October, while a kilogramme of bananas rose from K18.95 to K29.06. JCTR says the scarcity of vegetables such as bondwe and pumpkin leaves during the hot season has contributed to the price increases.
JCTR Social and Economic Development Manager Lukwesa Musonda says the continued fluctuations in food prices highlight the challenges households face in meeting their nutritional needs, particularly low-income families.
The Centre has further warned that food prices could increase as dry conditions associated with El Niño persist, potentially affecting agricultural production and the availability of food commodities.
By Niza Vomo
