The Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection (JCTR) reports that the Basic Needs and Nutrition Basket (BNNB) for a family of five in Lusaka has crossed the K12,000 mark, rising to ZMW 12,078.54 in March from ZMW 11,844.63 recorded in February.
The increase was mainly driven by higher food prices.
According to the JCTR, the food component of the basket rose from ZMW 5,089.75 in February to ZMW 5,270.72 in March, largely due to an increase in the cost of vegetables.
The price of a 40kg bag of vegetables increased from ZMW 628.26 to ZMW 778.87, making access to essential, nutrient-rich foods more difficult for many households.
Meanwhile, the cost of essential non-food items recorded a marginal rise to ZMW 6,807.83, compared to ZMW 6,754.88 in February.
According to JCTR, this is partly attributed to an increase in the price of a 90kg bag of charcoal, which went up from ZMW 716.67 to ZMW 750.00.
By Best Jere
