By BRIAN HATYOKA –
THE cost of living as measured by the Basic Need Basket (BNB) of the Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection (JCTR) for a family of five has reduced by more than K200 in Livingstone.
According to the latest report, the cost of living for the month of September 2015 as measured by JCTR Livingstone BNB for an average family of five in Livingstone is K3,183.78 which shows a decrease of K231.99.
This reduction in the cost of living is mainly attributed to the decrease in prices of beans, sardines (dry), bream fish (dry), vegetables and onions.
The decrease in the cost of living can be attributed to the boost in availability of seasonal food items such as vegetables, onions, sardines and dry fish.
Further, the report states that price decreases recorded in some cases show very little correspondence in the economy between the commodity prices and the living condition of people in the community.
JCTR outreach regional officer at the Livingstone office George Makaha said that significant price decreases on most of the essential commodities would greatly ease the hardships the Zambian people were experiencing every day.
“It is, therefore, JCTR’s view that the 2016 Budget should not simply be rhetoric but must be translated into real action.
“Parliament should look closely at those factors that are responsible for the relentless suffering of the majority of the Zambian people, one of which is high prices in the face of low wages,” Mr Makaha said.
JCTR says the quality of life for many Livingstone residents has remained low despite having recorded a reduced BNB for the month of September this year.
Mr Makaha said the ultimate objective of any economy was to ensure that the welfare of the people was uplifted.
“Evidence has also shown that despite having recorded commendable progress on the macro-economic front, there is very little to show in as far as translating into improved household welfare is concerned.
“It is still a challenge for many families to meet their food needs,” Mr Makaha said.