August 2024 Basic Needs & Nutrition Basket Statement: Ensuring Consumer Protection in the face of Rising Costs of Food Items

The Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection (JCTR) expresses concern over the rising costs of essential food items, which have increased the Basic Needs and Nutrition Basket (BNNB) in Lusaka to K10,669.33 in August 2024, marking a K93.40 increase from July. Key price hikes include kapenta and vegetables, posing a threat to national nutrition, especially for the vulnerable populations. The Centre highlights the need for consumer protection, sustainable farming practices, awareness of indigenous farming knowledge, and transparency in social assistance programmes to combat the adverse effects of these rising costs. JCTR remains committed to advocating for the availability of nutritious and affordable food through ongoing data collection and analysis.