High Mealie Meal Prices Are Detrimental on Poor Households
Abstract
The raising price of mealie meal among poor households is an increasing concern in Zambia particularly The Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection (JCTR). The price of mealie meal have gone up to K215 while in other places it is ranging between K170-K190. The increase in electricity tariffs and fuel pump prices largely influenced this shift. The effect on poor households remains a threat as increased costs are detrimental for the well-being of individuals. Therefore JCTR urges the government to continue closely monitoring and building resilience of authorities such as the Food Reserve Agency to prevent any further shortages.
Description
A country's staple commodity should be affordable in order to enable even the poorest of households to have a dignified livelihood. But this is not the case in Zambia. This statement shows how the prices of mealie meal have gone up, how this poses a challenge on the ability of poor households to meet other important non-food expenses such as housing, education and health care and threatens their overall well-being.