Thursday, March 5, 2026

LUSAKA, ZAMBIA - The Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection (JCTR) Basic Needs and Nutrition Basket (BNNB) for a family of five in Lusaka increased to ZMW 11, 844.63 from ZMW 11, 365.09 in January. This increase was primarily driven by an increase in the cost of food items. The essential food items of the basket recorded a significant increase from ZMW 4,604.43 in January to ZMW 5,089.75 in February primarily driven by an increase in the price of fruits (apples, oranges) from ZMW 17.14 to ZMW 46.44 for 1kg. The total cost of essential non-food items marginally reduced to ZMW 6,754.88 compared to ZMW 6,760.67 in January with prices of commodities remaining relatively stable barely offering little relief to households already grappling with elevated food expenditures. The increase in the BNNB reflects not only seasonal price pressures but also deeper structural weaknesses within Zambia’s food system that heighten vulnerability during lean periods and threaten the human dignity of families who struggle daily to meet their most basic needs.

February falls within the lean season, a period characterized by reduced household food stocks, reduced market supply, and higher transport and distribution costs. These seasonal dynamics typically exert upward pressure on fresh produce and protein-rich foods, exposing structural challenges such as limited irrigation coverage, inadequate storage infrastructure, high post-harvest losses and dependence on rain-fed agriculture. Although a few items such as cooking oil, onions, and tomatoes recorded marginal price reductions, these decreases were insufficient to offset the broader increases across essential food items. Rising food prices have direct implications for household welfare and nutrition. Low-income families who allocate a significant portion of their income to food are particularly vulnerable. As prices of staples and protein sources increase, households may be forced to reduce meal frequency, substitute toward less nutritious options or cut back on other essential expenditures such as education, health and transport. Such coping strategies often lead to reduced dietary diversity, increasing the risk of micronutrient deficiencies, particularly among children and women.

The Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection notes that the rise in the cost of essential food items highlights the need to address structural supply constraints. Therefore, it is worth noting that while programs such as the Farmer Input Support Programme (FISP) remain crucial for input access, they must be complemented by long-term structural investments that promote sustainable agriculture and household resilience. Addressing supply bottlenecks, supporting climate-smart agriculture, and enhancing food value chains are essential steps toward building a society where all can enjoy the fullness of life. Complementary investments in irrigation, storage, mechanization and extension services are essential to reduce seasonal shortages. Encouraging crop diversification beyond maize particularly legumes, and horticulture can stabilize protein and vegetable prices. These measures would ensure long-term productivity growth reduces vulnerability during the lean season.

Human dignity and preferential options for the poor must remain at the center of Zambia’s development agenda. As the country advances macroeconomic stability, policy interventions must yield tangible improvements in the daily lives of ordinary families. During this Lenten season, we are reminded that renewal is possible when compassion informs policy, justice shapes national priorities, and every citizen is afforded the opportunity to live with dignity and fullness of life. May this period inspire policymakers, communities, and all stakeholders to recommit building a just and equitable Zambia where no family is left behind.

Issued by: Ms. Lukwesa Musonda – Acting Social & Economic Development Programme Manager

For further clarifications, contact the Social and Economic Development (SED) Programme at the Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection (JCTR) on 0955290410, or email info@jctr.org.zm and admin@jctr.org.zm. Address: Martin Mwamba Road, Plot 3813, Olympia Park, Lusaka. Postal: P.O. Box 37774, Lusaka – Zambia.