By Mwaka Mwansa
The Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection (JCTR) has reported a modest decrease in the Basic Needs and Nutrition Basket (BNNB) for a family of five in Lusaka, which dropped to K10,834.61 in October 2025 from K11,289.98 in September.
JCTR Social and Economic Development Programme Officer Lukwese Musonda attributed the reduction to a decline in food prices, which fell from K4,917.90 to K4,401.74. Commodities such as kapenta, chicken, and soya pieces recorded significant price drops, while prices for vegetables and bananas saw slight increases.
However, non-food costs remained relatively stable, rising slightly from K6,372.06 to K6,432.87. Charcoal prices also increased from K516.99 to K553.33 per 90kg bag, exerting pressure on household energy budgets.
Ms. Musonda cautioned that despite the overall decrease, many families still struggle to meet basic needs. She called for stronger food and nutrition security measures, improved market transparency, and initiatives that promote livelihood resilience.
She emphasized the need for collaborative efforts to address poverty and ensure systems that guarantee decent livelihoods while protecting family welfare and human dignity.
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