OUR VISION
“A just Zambian society guided by faith, where everyone enjoys fullness of life.”
OUR WORK
To enhance justice and equality for all, particularly the poor and vulnerable through
the promotion of christian values, empowerment, care for the environment and
provision of policy alternatives as outlined in our Strategic Plan 2020 - 2023
the promotion of christian values, empowerment, care for the environment and
provision of policy alternatives as outlined in our Strategic Plan 2020 - 2023
FAITH & JUSTICE
Citizens and Institutions are inspired by gospel values, effectively care for the environment, prudently utilize public resources, and promote social justice for all...
Read More >> |
SOCIAL & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
To see an improved political and economic governance that is responsive to the needs of the poor and marginalized in Zambia...
Read More>> |
RECENT NEWS
STATEMENT: Call for End to Political Interference in CDF Implementation
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The Constituency Development Fund (CDF) is an important initiative by the government and has a huge potential to promote development at the grassroots level in Zambia and to contribute significantly to the economic and social development if implemented effectively and in a transparent and accountable manner. The CDF was established with the aim of promoting grassroots development by providing resources to support community projects identified through participatory processes. JCTR has in the past conducted studies around CDF and is currently implementing a project entitled “Enhancing transparency, accountability and community participation in the implementation of CDF.” Read more>>>
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Call for Quarter 2 Bulletin Articles
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JCTR is calling for articles analysing the importance of accountability and transparency to the exercise of public office, with particular reference to financial accountability. For the forthcoming JCTR Bulletin, JCTR is specifically calling for articles on the following:
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STATEMENT: Cushioning on High Living Cost Needed in 2024 National Budget
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The cost of living for a family of five as measured by the Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection (JCTR) Basic Needs and Nutrition Basket (BNNB) for the month of April 2023 in Lusaka stood at K9, 112.6. This represents an increase of K109.39 over the K9, 003.21 recorded in March 2023. The basket's upward movement can be attributed to price increases in food items such as 4kg onion, which increased by K51.96 from K76.93 (19.23/kg) to K128.89 (K32.2/Kg), 14kg other fruits, which increased by K49.09 from K402.38 (K28.74/ kg) to K451.47 (K32.25/ kg) and 5kg chicken, which increased by K41.57 from K251.17 (K100.47/2kg) to K292.74 (117.09/2kg).
Read more>>> |
| april_2023_bnnb_reports__1_.rar |
ARTICLE: Linking Constituency Development Fund (CDF) to Democracy in Zambia
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The bulwark of decentralization is making citizens become protagonists of their own development and democracy agenda. Even though Zambia is a representative democracy, the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) in principle creates a platform for ordinary citizens to directly influence the kind and quality of their democracy through being protagonists of their development destinies; this is the bulwark of decentralization and subsidiarity. Succinctly, CDF is an avenue for direct democracy in Zambia- people must directly manage their own development at the lowest levels. The democracy summit held in Zambia on 29th and 30th March 2023 presented a candid opportunity for the national, regional, continent and global reflection and discernment on our democracies. Read more>>>
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COST OF LIVING TRENDS: March 2023 BNNB Reports
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The average Cost of Living for a family of 5 in Zambia stood at K6, 722.32 in March 2023. The country's capital, Lusaka, remains the most expensive town to live in, recording a basket worth K9, 003.21 while the least expensive town, Kasama, recorded a basket worth K4, 652.12.
Download a free copy of the full reports here>>> |
ARTICLE: Implications of the Current Mealie Meal Crisis on Cost of Living
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The current mealie-meal shortage on the Zambian market is as a result of poor planning of the 2022-23 farming season by Government. The onset of the 2022-23 farming season witnessed chaos in organizing the beneficiaries list of the Farmer Input Support Programme (FISP), late distribution of farming input, distribution of incomplete farming input sets, high cost of farming inputs and shortage of farming inputs on the markets. Subsistent and small-scale farmers seriously depend on the availability, affordability and accessibility of farming inputs for them to produce beyond the household consumption.
Subsistent and small-scale farmers in Zambia feed the nation. Hence any disturbance in satisfying the farming input needs unleashes a ripple effect on household’s food security and nutrition outcomes. Food availability, affordability and accessibility at household level in Zambia is heavily dependent on agriculture. Families depend on agriculture as source of food, nutrition and income. Read more>>> |
Fr. Alex Muyebe - ED
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BNNB STATEMENT: Delays in Debt Restructuring Keeping Living Costs High
Ms. Muchimba Siamachoka - SED Programme Manager
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The cost of living for a family of five as measured by the Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection (JCTR) Basic Needs and Nutrition Basket (BNNB) for the month of March 2023 in Lusaka stood at K9,003.21. This reflects a K274.85 decrease from the K9,278.06 recorded in February, 2023. While most price commodities did not change significantly, the downward movement in the basket is attributed to lower prices in food items such as 1kg Kapenta which went down by K84.8 from K356.67(K356.67/kg) to K271.87(K271.87/kg), 16 kg bananas which went down by K40.6 from K317.16 (19.82/Kg) to K276.56(17.29/Kg), 2Kg beef which went down by K31.98 from K181.14 (K90.57/kg) to K149.16(k74.58/kg), and 6 kg Cassava flour which went down by K22.32 from K131.38(K21.90/kg) to K109.06 (18.18/kg). The basket also saw notable reductions in the prices of non-food items such as 2, 90kg bags of charcoal which went down by K98.17 from K776.67(K383.33/90 kg bag) to K678.5 (K339.25/90 kg bag). Furthermore, the price of 40kg vegetables increased by K18.68 from K483.57 (K483.57/40 Kg) to K502.25 (K502.25/40 Kg) in the basket.
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ARTICLE: The Nexus Between Zambia's Debt Crisis and the Cost of Living
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One of key works of JCTR is to monitor the cost of living in Zambia on a monthly basis in order to assess the implications of the cost of living on the vulnerable communities. The evidence that JCTR generates is used to advocate for pro-poor policies aimed at addressing poverty and inequality in Zambia. To generate this evidence JCTR uses four types of tools to collect and analyse data namely the Basic Needs and Nutrition Basket which collects data from both urban and rural communities, the Rural Basic Needs and Nutrition Basket which collects data from the rural communities only, the Satellite Home Survey which collects data from low income households and Mini-Studies which collect data from a wide range of stakeholders (government actors, non-government actors and community members).
JCTR has observed that the food prices in Zambia have been on rise since the beginning of 2022 due to the impact of COVID pandemic, climate change, and the on-set of the Ukraine-Russian conflict. Since January 2023 JCTR has observed a new wave of upsurge in food prices and other essential commodities largely due to the stagnation in Zambia’s debt restructuring negotiations under the G20 Common Framework. Read more>>> |
Fr. Alex Muyebe - ED
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FEBRUARY BASIC NEEDS AND NUTRITION BASKET (BNNB) REPORTS
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The cost of living for a family of five, as measured by the Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection (JCTR) Basic Needs and Nutrition Basket (BNNB) for the month of February 2023 in Lusaka, stood at K9, 278.06. This reflects a K230.75 increase from the K9, 047.31 recorded in February, 2023. The upward movement in the basket is attributed to increased prices in food items such as 14kg of other fruits which went up by K320.82 from K108.75 (K7.77/kg) to K429.57 (K30.68/kg), 16kg bananas which went up by K90.26 from K226.90 (K14.18/kg) to K317.16 (K19.82/kg), 1kg kapenta which went up by K88.68 from K267.99 (K267.99/kg) to K356.67 (K356.67/kg), 6kg cassava flour which went up by K66.34 from K65.04 (K10.84/kg) to K131.38 (K21.90/kg) and 4kg rice which went up by K24.15 from K97.65 (K122.07/5kg) to K121.80 (K152.25/5kg).
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MESSAGE FOR YOUTH DAY: A CALL TO ACCELERATE YOUTH DEVELOPMENT THROUGH IMPROVED SOCIO-ECONOMIC AND SOCIO-CULTURAL STANDARDS
On this day, we commemorate the Youth Day celebration in remembering the contribution of the nation’s youths to Zambian society – following the disturbances of 1962 which resulted in the deaths of many young Zambians during the nation's turbulent journey to independence. The importance of Youth Day in Zambia cannot be overemphasised as it is a day dedicated to highlighting the significance of the youth to our great nation. We also acknowledge the importance of the youths today as the most productive age group cardinal to the development of the nation. Youths quintessentially remain an integral aspect of tomorrow's future, as matters of democracy, economic and social growth, technological advancements, and the improvement of medical science all lie in the hands of the Youth. The answers to solving the problems of poverty, unemployment, global warming and many other problems that Zambia is facing today lies with the next generation. Read more>>>
IMPLICATIONS OF DELAYED DEBT RESTRUCTURING ON THE LIVELIHOODS OF ZAMBIANS
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ARTICLE
Zambia is still battling with a debt distress which has denied the country the opportunity to grow at its full potential. This has worsened the poverty levels as the past few years have seen a rechannelling of resources from key sectors of the economy such as: social security protection; education; health; water and sanitation among others to debt serving. The coming in of Covid-19 further worsened the living conditions in Zambia through disruptions of livelihood as productivity was lost and government’s responsibility to meet health needs of its people increased. Zambia therefore needs to grow to its full potential to improve livelihoods of its people and eradicate poverty. It is for this reason that the country desperately needs a debt restructure to unlock investment and improve fiscal space. Read more>>> |
STRATEGIC GOVERNMENT INTERVENTION REQUIRED TO REDUCE THE HIGH COST OF MEALIE MEAL PRICES
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The cost of living for a family of five as measured by the Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection (JCTR) Basic Needs and Nutrition Basket (BNNB) for the month of January 2023 in Lusaka stood at K9, 047.31. This reflects a K64.49 increase from the K8, 982.82 recorded in December, 2022. The upward movement in the basket is attributed to increased prices in food items such as 2 bags of 25kg mealie meal (roller) which went up by K51.28 from K245 (K122.50/25 kg bag) to K296.28 (K148.14/25 kg bag), 2kg chicken which went up by K41.46 from K272.49 (108.99/2kg) to K313.95 (K125.58/2kg), 1kg kapenta which went up by K28.63 from K239.36 (K239.36/1kg) to K267.99 (K267.99/1kg) and 40kg vegetables which went up by K38.06 from K441.96 (K441.96/40 kg) to K480.02 (K480.02/40 kg). The basket, however, recorded notable decreases in food items such as 6kg cassava flour which went down by K44.46 from K109.50 (K18.25/1kg) to K65.04 (K10.84/1kg) and 4kg onion which went down by K37.78 from K117.69 (K29.42/1 kg) to K79.91 (K19.98/1kg). Read more>>>
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A BRIEF ANALYSIS OF THE COST OF LIVING IN LUSAKA AND OTHER TOWNS
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The average cost of living in December 2022 stood at K6, 354.44 reflecting a K264.58 increase compared to November 2022. Remaining K2, 139.44 above the 2021 national average income of K4, 215. Lusaka, the capital city, remained the most expensive city to live in after registering a significant change, a K415.62 increase in the month of December 2022.
Solwezi was the second most expensive town to live in after Lusaka, with a basket of K8, 188.02, owing largely to the higher cost of housing in the district. Kasama, on the other hand, finished the year as the cheapest town to live in, with the basket standing at K4, 314.9. Read more>>> |
| dec_2022_bnnb_reports_final.zip |
LOAD SHEDDING TO ADVERSELY IMPACT THE MOST VULNERABLE AMIDST THE HIGH COST OF LIVING
The cost of living for a family of five as measured by the Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection (JCTR) Basic Needs and Nutrition Basket (BNNB) for the month of December 2022 in Lusaka stood at K8, 982.82. This reflects a K 415.62 increase from the K8, 567.2 recorded in November, 2022. The upward movement in the basket is attributed to increased prices in food items such as 4kg onion which went up by K67.26 from K50.3 (K12.61/ kg) to K117.69 (K29.42/kg), 2kg chicken which went up by K49.99 from K222.50 (K89.00/2kg) to K272.49 (108.99/2kg) and 2 bags of 25kg Mealie Meal (Roller) which went up by K41.51 from K203.49 (K101.74/25kg) to K245 (K122.50/25 kg). The basket also noted a significant increase in the non-food items section specifically with 2 bags of 90kg of charcoal which went up by K330 from K750 (K375.00/90kg bag) to K1, 080 (K540.00/90kg). Read more>>>
EFFECTS OF LARGE-SCALE MINING & COVID-19 PANDEMIC ON WOMEN IN SOLWEZI AND KALUMBILA DISTRICTS OF ZAMBIA
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Globally, Women can experience the consequences of mining projects in different, and often more pronounced, ways than men. Women often bear the brunt of mining projects yet fail to equitably enjoy the potential benefit. It is clear that women are the most negatively affected by the various social and environmental impacts of the mining extractive industries. Women are affected more than other community members causing serious psychological, social, economic, health and physical stress.
Read more on the Policy Brief here>>> Or download a free copy of the report attached below. |
... for Zambia other factors that have exacerbated the impacts of large-scale mining are weak enforcement of policy and legal frameworks and institutional arrangements in the extractive industry particularly related to the republican constitution, land policy and legal framework, environmental management, land resettlement and compensation." |
| report_-_women_in_mining_-_final.pdf |
A Brief Analysis of the Cost of Living in Lusaka and Other Towns
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The average cost of living in November 2022 stood at K6, 089.86 reflecting a K35.13 reduction compared to October 2022. Remaining K1, 698.86 above the national average income of K4, 391.
The capital city, Lusaka still remains the most expensive city to live in. The city has not registered significant change from September 2022 and registered a drop of only K29.42 as it stood at K8, 567.20 for November 2022. Solwezi was the second most expensive town to live in after Lusaka with its basket recorded at K8, 129.49 largely attributed to the higher cost of housing in district. Read more>>>
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Publication: Catholic Social Teaching & Business
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Catholic Social Teaching has something to say to all members of a democratic society. It has insights to share with government officials, as they carry out the mandate given to them by voters. It has wisdom to provide to families, as parents nurture their children into maturity. The social doctrine of the Church can also be a sure guide to business leaders, as they seek to engage with modern economic and financial systems. The present guide presents an introduction to Catholic Social Teaching (CST) in a way that will help businesses to see the value of the Church’s social doctrine to commercial enterprise.
In Part One, the guide provides a concise summary as to what CST is, as well outline what the theological foundations and rationale are for CST. In Part Two, it will explore five topics that will show how businesses can most effectively apply core principles of CST to contemporary business practice. | ||
BNNB Statement: 2022 Year-End Cost of Living Reflection
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The cost of living for a family of five as measured by the Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection's (JCTR's) Basic Needs and Nutrition Basket (BNNB) for the month of November 2022 in Lusaka stood at K8, 567.20. This reflects a K29.42 increase from the K8, 537.78 recorded in October 2022. The upward movement in the basket is attributed to increased prices in items such as 1kg kapenta which went up by K61.77 from K197.65 (197.65/kg) to K259.42 (K259.42/kg), 6kg tomato which went up by K52.56 from K57.51 (K9.59/kg) to K110.07 (18.34/kg) and 40kg of vegetables which went up by K27.22 from K417.58 (K417.58/40kg) to K444.80 (444.80/40kg).
The basket, however, recorded notable decreases in food items such as 2 bags of 25kg Mealie Meal (Roller) went down by K29.31 from K232.80 (K116.40/25 kg) to K203.49 (101.74/25kg) and 3.6 litres of cooking oil which went down by K21.39 from K167.76 (K116.50/2.5lt) to K146.37 (101.64/2.5lt). Further, other fruits also went down by K123.55 from K257.17(K18.37/ kg) to K133.62 (K9.54/kg). The JCTR notes that overall, the month of October did not register a significant change in the cost of living. This is because most items in the food and non-food sections of the basket have not changed significantly as a result of the inflation rate's stability. The inflation rate increased by only 0.1 percentage points from 9.7 percent in October 2022 to 9.8 percent in November 2022. In reflecting further, the JCTR notes that increases in petroleum products influenced the basket increase to a small extent. Read more>>> |
CALL FOR ARTICLES
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The Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection (JCTR) is a research, education and advocacy organization that promotes study and action on issues linking Christian faith and social justice in Zambia. Through a faith-based perspective, JCTR strives to critically understand current issues, which emphasize human dignity at individual, household and national levels and generate activities to promote social justice. The Centre undertakes a number of studies to inform the advocacy work on various topical issues affecting the society. The cost-of-living study is one of well-known works of JCTR. With the vision to educate, inform, advocate and lobby, JCTR also publishes the JCTR Bulletin on quarterly basis.
The conversation around protection and care for the environment has continued to be a global discourse. For instance, world conferences like the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (famously called CoP) take place annually. At such conferences, some policies and commitments to protecting the environment are often made. However, the key challenges to efforts at environmental protection and to effective interventions to stop climate change concern their applicability and practicality in the local setting. Read further>>> |
ASSESSING THE ALLOCATION & USE OF SDRs IN ZAMBIA
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SDRs remain an unsustainable way of financing PSPF – leaving pensioners forced to suffer the tolls. If reforms such as the incorporation of public service workers in an occupational pension scheme are not addressed by the government, destitution and poverty among pensioners is likely to go up in Zambia.
Although government’s efforts and transparent utilization of SDRs are commendable, these great social programmes remain at great risk as they need to have sustainable sources of financing to enhance their operations. Our research highlights the need for government departments such as the Department of Community Development in the Ministry of Community Development and the Disaster Management and Mitigation Unit (DMMU) to coordinate better in times of crisis such as droughts and floods. Given the unsustainability of SDRs to the vital sectors of the country, it is incumbent on the Zambian Government to begin looking into long-term solutions to finance its Social Cash Transfer programme. The number of beneficiaries should not increase due to the promise of more aid from its cooperating partners, and neither should the Youth and Women Empowerment funds, grants to hospitals, the Food Security Pack (FSP), nor other financing gaps be as a result of unsustainable aid. | ||
CDF GUIDELINES SIMPLIFIED
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The Constituency Development Fund (CDF) was first established in 1995 to support micro-community projects as part of the wider decentralisation and local development policy. The fundamental objective was to provide resources to bridge the financing gap arising from non-existence sources of funds to finance micro-community led projects in all the Constituencies across the Country.
To bolster community participation, JCTR, with support from ActionAid, has simplified the CDF guidelines - whose objective are to further inform readers about the management, disbursement, utilisation and accountability of the CDF. The guidelines also provide clarity on the roles and responsibilities of various stakeholders in relation to implementation, procurement monitoring and evaluation under the CDF. |
| simplification_of_cdf_guidelines_to_support_community_participation.pdf |
ANALYSIS: OCTOBER BNNB
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A Brief Analysis of the Cost of Living in Lusaka and Other Towns
The average cost of living in October 2022 stood at K6, 124.99. i.e., K1, 733.99 above the national average income of K4, 391.00. The Capital City, Lusaka remains the most expensive city to live in despite a reduction of K312.60 moving from K8, 850.38 in September to K8, 537.78 in October. Variations in the movement of essential food and non-food items were noted in other BNNB towns. Mansa remained the cheapest town to live in, in October 2022, at K4, 607.36 despite recording an increase from the September 2022 basket that was recorded at K4, 450.53. Similarly, Livingstone rose sharply from K6, 291.21 to K6, 987.87. Other towns like Kabwe equally recorded an upward adjustment from K6, 725.45 in September to K6, 884.91 in October; mainly attributed to limited supply of some food items such as fruits (oranges and apples) in local markets. A few towns, however, recorded drops in the basket. The drops were driven by price decreases in some food commodities including fruits (availability of mango as a substitute in some districts) and vegetables and in the non-food, section drops in the prices of charcoal. The influence of seasonality on both the food and non-food sections of the basket continues to affect the cost of living. This is particularly reflected in the lower price of charcoal, which may be due to a lower demand for the commodity, given the end of the cold season. The towns below recorded overall drops in the baskets:
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OCTOBER BNNB
A CALL TO ADDRESS PUBLIC REVENUE LEAKS IN ORDER TO REDUCE THE HIGH COST OF LIVING
The cost of living for a family of five as measured by the Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection (JCTR) Basic Needs and Nutrition Basket (BNNB) for the month of October 2022 in Lusaka stood at K8, 537.78. This reflects a K312.60 decrease from the K8, 850.38 recorded in September 2022. The downward movement in the basket is attributed to reduced prices in items such as 40 kg of vegetables which went down by K152.11 from K569.69 (K569.69/40kg) to K417.58 (K417.58/40kg), 16kg of bananas which went down by K48.34 from K268.48 (K16.78/kg) to K220.14 (K13.76/kg), 4kg of rice which went down by K11.54 to K75.46 (K94.33/5 kg) from K87 (K108.75/5kg), 2kg of beef which went down by K7.16 from K135.33 (K67.67/kg) to K128.17 (K64.08/kg), among others. The non-food but essential items section also recorded a decrease, as two 90 kg bags of charcoal went down by K93.33 from K833.33 (K416.67 per bag) to K740 (K370 per bag). The basket, however, recorded notable increases in items, such as 6kg cassava which went up by K43.48 from K86.98 (K14.50/kg) to K130.46 (K21.74/kg) and 3kg beans which went up by K27.53 from K97.71 (K32.57/kg) to K125.24 (K41.75/kg). Read more>>>
The cost of living for a family of five as measured by the Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection (JCTR) Basic Needs and Nutrition Basket (BNNB) for the month of October 2022 in Lusaka stood at K8, 537.78. This reflects a K312.60 decrease from the K8, 850.38 recorded in September 2022. The downward movement in the basket is attributed to reduced prices in items such as 40 kg of vegetables which went down by K152.11 from K569.69 (K569.69/40kg) to K417.58 (K417.58/40kg), 16kg of bananas which went down by K48.34 from K268.48 (K16.78/kg) to K220.14 (K13.76/kg), 4kg of rice which went down by K11.54 to K75.46 (K94.33/5 kg) from K87 (K108.75/5kg), 2kg of beef which went down by K7.16 from K135.33 (K67.67/kg) to K128.17 (K64.08/kg), among others. The non-food but essential items section also recorded a decrease, as two 90 kg bags of charcoal went down by K93.33 from K833.33 (K416.67 per bag) to K740 (K370 per bag). The basket, however, recorded notable increases in items, such as 6kg cassava which went up by K43.48 from K86.98 (K14.50/kg) to K130.46 (K21.74/kg) and 3kg beans which went up by K27.53 from K97.71 (K32.57/kg) to K125.24 (K41.75/kg). Read more>>>
ZAMBIA AT 58
Fr. Alex Muyebe, ED.
Independence Celebration an Opportunity to Reflect on the Performance of our Democracy
As Zambia celebrates 58 years of independence, it is a cause of celebration for every advocate of democracy in this great nation. Over the past 58 years, the nation has made some strides in realizing the true potential of democracy through a democratic system of government in which supreme power is vested in the people and exercised by them directly or indirectly through a system of representation usually involving periodic free elections. Some of the characteristics of a good democracy which successive governments have been entrenching to varying degrees include respect for basic human rights, a multi-party-political system paired with political tolerance, a democratic voting system, respect for the rule of law, democratic governance, and the citizen participation.
One outstanding issue in Zambia’s democratic architecture is the on-going process of refining the Constitution of the Republic. Zambia has had the constitutional reforms of 1972 and 1991 under President Kaunda, the reforms of 1996 under President Chiluba, and the reforms of 2016 under President Lungu. All these attempts to refine the constitution have struggled to give Zambia a solid legal foundation which expresses the hopes and dreams of the people. Unfortunately, constitutional reform agenda has many a time been driven by a party in government with a motive to entrench itself in power. Read more>>>
As Zambia celebrates 58 years of independence, it is a cause of celebration for every advocate of democracy in this great nation. Over the past 58 years, the nation has made some strides in realizing the true potential of democracy through a democratic system of government in which supreme power is vested in the people and exercised by them directly or indirectly through a system of representation usually involving periodic free elections. Some of the characteristics of a good democracy which successive governments have been entrenching to varying degrees include respect for basic human rights, a multi-party-political system paired with political tolerance, a democratic voting system, respect for the rule of law, democratic governance, and the citizen participation.
One outstanding issue in Zambia’s democratic architecture is the on-going process of refining the Constitution of the Republic. Zambia has had the constitutional reforms of 1972 and 1991 under President Kaunda, the reforms of 1996 under President Chiluba, and the reforms of 2016 under President Lungu. All these attempts to refine the constitution have struggled to give Zambia a solid legal foundation which expresses the hopes and dreams of the people. Unfortunately, constitutional reform agenda has many a time been driven by a party in government with a motive to entrench itself in power. Read more>>>
SEPTEMBER BNNB
HAS THE HIGH COST OF LIVING IN ZAMBIA BEEN ADDRESSED BY THE 2023 NATIONAL BUDGET PRONOUCEMENTS?
The cost of living for a family of five living in Lusaka, as measured by the Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection (JCTR) Basic Needs and Nutrition Basket for the month of September 2022, stood at K8, 850.38. This is a K227.48 decrease from K9, 077.86 recorded in August 2022. The downward movement in the basket is attributed to reduced prices in items such as 14kg of other fruits which went down by K38.57 from K294.00 (K21.00/kg) to K235.43 (18.52/kg), 10 litres of fresh milk which went down by K34.69 from K307.96 (15.40/500ml) to K273.27 (K13.66/500ml), 5kg chicken which went down by K36.06 from K288.56 (115.43/2kgs) to K252.50 (101.00/2kgs). The non-food but essential items section also recorded a decrease, as two 90kg bags of charcoal also went down by K22.67 from K856.00 (K428.00 per bag) to K833.33 (416.67 per bag). The basket, however, recorded notable increases in items, such as 16kg of bananas which went up by K19.36 from K287.84 (17.99/kg) to K268.48 (16.78/kg), and 40kgs vegetables which went up by K7.73 from K561.96 to K569.69. Read more>>>
The cost of living for a family of five living in Lusaka, as measured by the Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection (JCTR) Basic Needs and Nutrition Basket for the month of September 2022, stood at K8, 850.38. This is a K227.48 decrease from K9, 077.86 recorded in August 2022. The downward movement in the basket is attributed to reduced prices in items such as 14kg of other fruits which went down by K38.57 from K294.00 (K21.00/kg) to K235.43 (18.52/kg), 10 litres of fresh milk which went down by K34.69 from K307.96 (15.40/500ml) to K273.27 (K13.66/500ml), 5kg chicken which went down by K36.06 from K288.56 (115.43/2kgs) to K252.50 (101.00/2kgs). The non-food but essential items section also recorded a decrease, as two 90kg bags of charcoal also went down by K22.67 from K856.00 (K428.00 per bag) to K833.33 (416.67 per bag). The basket, however, recorded notable increases in items, such as 16kg of bananas which went up by K19.36 from K287.84 (17.99/kg) to K268.48 (16.78/kg), and 40kgs vegetables which went up by K7.73 from K561.96 to K569.69. Read more>>>
| final_sept-2022_bnnb_reports.zip |
WRITE-UP
John Kunda Sauti, F&J Programmes Officer
MAKING INCLUSIVE LOCAL DEVELOPMENT A REALITY THROUGH CONSTITUENCY DEVELOPMENT FUND
The Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection participated at the 66th LGAZ Annual Conference and 19th AMICAALL General Assembly on the panel discussion organized by Local Government Association of Zambia (LGAZ) at the Assembly. The thematic area for discussion was “Actualising decentralization for Sustainable Development: Harnessing Opportunities and Mitigating Challenges”. JCTR’s thematic area was “Making Inclusive Local Development a Reality through Constituency Development Fund”. The objective of this session was:
Development Fund (CDF) is not a new reality. CDF has been in existence since 1995. Probably, now we should commence thinking of how the increase of CDF has accelerated the impact and meaningfully contributed to national development. Development is a difficult concept to define, and it is important to take note of who is defining development. This is because it has implication on the objectives and desired change of that development. Read more>>>
The Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection participated at the 66th LGAZ Annual Conference and 19th AMICAALL General Assembly on the panel discussion organized by Local Government Association of Zambia (LGAZ) at the Assembly. The thematic area for discussion was “Actualising decentralization for Sustainable Development: Harnessing Opportunities and Mitigating Challenges”. JCTR’s thematic area was “Making Inclusive Local Development a Reality through Constituency Development Fund”. The objective of this session was:
- To explore the opportunities which Constituency Development Fund (CDF) has created for inclusive development at the local level,
- To share strategies aimed at ensuring CDF adequately addresses the needs of vulnerable groups.
Development Fund (CDF) is not a new reality. CDF has been in existence since 1995. Probably, now we should commence thinking of how the increase of CDF has accelerated the impact and meaningfully contributed to national development. Development is a difficult concept to define, and it is important to take note of who is defining development. This is because it has implication on the objectives and desired change of that development. Read more>>>
POSITIVE EFFECTS OF STABILITY ACROSS KEY FUNDAMENTALS RECORDED AS AUGUST BNNB REDUCES BY K254.96
The cost of living for a family of five, as measured by the Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection (JCTR) Basic Needs and Nutrition Basket (BNNB) for the month of August 2022 in Lusaka, stood at K9,077.86. This signifies a K254.96 decrease from the K9,332.82 recorded in July 2022. The downward movement in the basket can mainly be attributed to price movements in certain items such as two 90kg bags of charcoal which went down by K44.00 from K900.00 (K450 per bag) to K856.00 (K428 per bag), 1kg of kapenta which went down by K56.22 from K261.67 to K205.45, 5kg of chicken which went down by K37.26 from K325.82 to K288.56 and two 25kg bags of roller mealie meal also reduced by K32.36 from K261.50 (K130.75 per bag) to K229.14 (114.57 per bag). Additionally, the basket also recorded decreases in items such as 3 trays of eggs which went down by K18.48 from K172.99 (K19.20/ unit) to K154.50 (K17.17/unit) as well as 3.6 litres of cooking oil which went down by K6.00 from K204.00 to K198.00. The basket however recorded notable increases in items such as 6kg of tomatoes which went up by K8.33 from K72.36 (K12.06/kg) to K80.69 (13.45/kg) and 4kg rice which also went up by K8.92 from K94.65 to K103.57.
Price reductions are attributed primarily to the kwacha’s recent appreciation against major currencies such as the US dollar, which may have resulted in lower import costs for the production of food items such as chicken, eggs and cooking oil. Additionally, the reduction in fuel pump prices effected on 1st August 2022 has had an impact on some commodity price reductions on account of reduced production costs. It is noteworthy to mention that the influence of seasonality on both the food and non-food sections of the basket continues to affect the cost of living. This is particularly reflected in the lower price of charcoal, which may be due to a lower demand for the commodity, given the end of the cold season. While it is true that charcoal is a widely used source of energy and also an important source of livelihood for many people engaged in the charcoal value chain, the need to protect the environment and identify alternatives still remains key in the fight against the climate crisis. Read More>>>
| august_2022_bnnb_reports_08.09.2022.zip |
STATEMENT
Fr. Alex Muyebe, ED.
A POSITIVE NARRATIVE FOR ZAMBIA AS THE IMF APPROVES EXTENDED CREDIT FACILITY (ECF) ARRANGEMENT
On 31st August 2022, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) Board approved about US$1.3 billion – a 38-month ECF arrangement for Zambia to help restore macroeconomic stability and foster higher, more resilient, and more inclusive growth. The nation has been pursuing for an IMF-supported economic programme for a while now (since 2016) with the hope in recent times being that this bailout package will help restructure the nation’s large public debt portfolio while ensuring equal treatment for its creditors especially after being the first African sovereign national to default on its debt in November 2020.
The Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection (JCTR) commends the efforts that the Zambian government continues to pursue around debt legislative framework, institutional strengthening and systems as well economic reform strategies. Pointing out as an example, the recent enactment of the Public Debt Management legislation demonstrates efforts that the nation has put in place to ensure that as Zambia addresses the current huge debt burden, we set ourselves on a trajectory to prevent ever finding ourselves again in a similar situation. Read more>>>
On 31st August 2022, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) Board approved about US$1.3 billion – a 38-month ECF arrangement for Zambia to help restore macroeconomic stability and foster higher, more resilient, and more inclusive growth. The nation has been pursuing for an IMF-supported economic programme for a while now (since 2016) with the hope in recent times being that this bailout package will help restructure the nation’s large public debt portfolio while ensuring equal treatment for its creditors especially after being the first African sovereign national to default on its debt in November 2020.
The Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection (JCTR) commends the efforts that the Zambian government continues to pursue around debt legislative framework, institutional strengthening and systems as well economic reform strategies. Pointing out as an example, the recent enactment of the Public Debt Management legislation demonstrates efforts that the nation has put in place to ensure that as Zambia addresses the current huge debt burden, we set ourselves on a trajectory to prevent ever finding ourselves again in a similar situation. Read more>>>
ABSTRACT
Income inequality is one of the social injustices contributing greatly to the widening gap between the rich and the poor. This study sought after establishing existing income levels across different categories of workers in Zambia and compare them with the cost of living in order to strengthen the JCTR’s advocacy work towards dignified lives. Target groups included domestic workers, security officers, drivers, waiters/waitresses and construction workers among others. A great number of participants in this study earned between K500.00 and K3, 000.00. Using both qualitative and quantitative methods of collecting and analysing data, the study accordingly provided an insight on how sufficient or insufficient the wages were in relation to the cost of living and exposed the extent to which income inequalities among different categories of workers affect social justice – with families forced to put up coping mechanisms such as having reduced or rationed meals, engaging in piece or extra work and borrowing money from lenders. Read more>>>
NB: Access to this file will soon shift to our repository.
| final_june-2022_bnnb_reports.zip |
Fr. Alex Muyebe, ED
A CALL FOR A PRO-POOR 2023 NATIONAL BUDGET
After an estimated 1.5 percentage point increase in the international poverty rate between 2019 and 2020, the poverty headcount in Zambia is projected to have remained high, at about 60% in 2021 (the World Bank Macro Poverty Outlook, April 2022). The rise in poverty has been largely driven by falling incomes in urban areas, especially among those relying on employment income from the informal sector. A World Bank Household Monitoring phone survey found that 4 in 5 households reported a drop in income from nonfarm business, and that 1 in 3 reported a reduction or disappearance of wages due to the pandemic (ibid). A recent Socio-economic Impact Assessment conducted by the National Statistical Office found that 9 in 10 households have experienced spikes in the price of food, and that 64% of these had to reduce food consumption as a result (ibid). The hard fact is that the number of people living in poverty in Zambia remain very high.
Poverty has always been one of the major barriers to human development in Zambia since independence in 1964. No country can achieve sustained economic growth for national development without effectively addressing wide-spread poverty in its population. Read more>>>>
After an estimated 1.5 percentage point increase in the international poverty rate between 2019 and 2020, the poverty headcount in Zambia is projected to have remained high, at about 60% in 2021 (the World Bank Macro Poverty Outlook, April 2022). The rise in poverty has been largely driven by falling incomes in urban areas, especially among those relying on employment income from the informal sector. A World Bank Household Monitoring phone survey found that 4 in 5 households reported a drop in income from nonfarm business, and that 1 in 3 reported a reduction or disappearance of wages due to the pandemic (ibid). A recent Socio-economic Impact Assessment conducted by the National Statistical Office found that 9 in 10 households have experienced spikes in the price of food, and that 64% of these had to reduce food consumption as a result (ibid). The hard fact is that the number of people living in poverty in Zambia remain very high.
Poverty has always been one of the major barriers to human development in Zambia since independence in 1964. No country can achieve sustained economic growth for national development without effectively addressing wide-spread poverty in its population. Read more>>>>
CELEBRATING WORLD DAY TO COMBAT DESERTIFICATION & DROUGHT
Rising up from Drought Together
Droughts are among the greatest threats to sustainable development, especially in developing countries, but increasingly so in developed nations too. In fact, forecasts estimate that by 2050 droughts may affect over three-quarters of the world’s population. Humanity's at a crossroads when it comes to managing drought. Mitigations must be done urgently, using every tool possible. A report from the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) calls for making a full global commitment to drought preparedness a top priority.
The number & duration of droughts have increased by 29 percent since the year 2000, as compared to the two previous decades (WMO 2021). When more than 2.3 billion people already face water stress, this is a huge problem. More & more of us will be living in areas with extreme water shortages, including an estimated one in four children by 2040 (UNICEF). No country is immune to drought (UN-Water 2021).
Where & when possible, the onus is on everyone to give back to mother earth & plant trees to help decelerate the stress caused by the surging droughts.here to edit. Read more>>>>
A CALL FOR PRIVATE SECTOR DRIVEN ECONOMIC GROWTH TO ALLEVIATE POVERTY LEVELS IN ZAMBIA
The cost of living for a family of five living in Lusaka as measured by the Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection (JCTR) Basic Needs and Nutrition Basket (BNNB) for the month of May 2022 stood at K9, 293.04. This shows a decline of K33.37 from the April 2022 basket which was K9, 326.41. The decline in the basket can mainly be attributed to price movements in the food item section. Which recorded a reduction of K96.67 from K3, 659.19 in April 2022 to K3, 562.52 in May 2022. The basket has since recorded reductions in items such as; 14kg of other fruits went down by K86.33, from K322.00 (K23.00/kg) to K235.67 (K16.83/kg), 2 25kg bag of roller mealie meal also went down by K16.67 from K280.00 (K140.00 per bag) to K263.33 (K131.67 per bag).
Additionally, 1kg of kapenta was also reduced by K24.00 from K292.11 to K268.11. From the non-food but essential items, the price of 2 90kg bags of charcoal was reduced by K8.96 from K823.96 (K411.98 per bag) to K815.00 (K407.50 per bag). On the other hand, price increases were observed in the value of 40kg vegetables which increased by K12.63 from K582.61 to K595.24, and 4kg rice which went up by K2.88 from K92.00 to K94.88. Read more>>>>
The cost of living for a family of five living in Lusaka as measured by the Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection (JCTR) Basic Needs and Nutrition Basket (BNNB) for the month of May 2022 stood at K9, 293.04. This shows a decline of K33.37 from the April 2022 basket which was K9, 326.41. The decline in the basket can mainly be attributed to price movements in the food item section. Which recorded a reduction of K96.67 from K3, 659.19 in April 2022 to K3, 562.52 in May 2022. The basket has since recorded reductions in items such as; 14kg of other fruits went down by K86.33, from K322.00 (K23.00/kg) to K235.67 (K16.83/kg), 2 25kg bag of roller mealie meal also went down by K16.67 from K280.00 (K140.00 per bag) to K263.33 (K131.67 per bag).
Additionally, 1kg of kapenta was also reduced by K24.00 from K292.11 to K268.11. From the non-food but essential items, the price of 2 90kg bags of charcoal was reduced by K8.96 from K823.96 (K411.98 per bag) to K815.00 (K407.50 per bag). On the other hand, price increases were observed in the value of 40kg vegetables which increased by K12.63 from K582.61 to K595.24, and 4kg rice which went up by K2.88 from K92.00 to K94.88. Read more>>>>
| may-2022_bnnb_reports.zip |
Fr. Alex Muyebe, ED
THE COST OF LIVING IN ZAMBIA
Since January 2022, the cost of living around the world and in Zambia has been on an upward trend corresponding to the rise in commodity prices. The cost of living represents the average cost of an accepted standard of living including basic food items and essential non-food items. Cost of living is frequently used to compare minimum income needs in a given location, town, or country. Cost of living measures the change, up or down, in the basic necessities of life, like food, housing, and healthcare. One of the key triggers of the rise in commodity prices in Zambia has been the introduction of cost-reflective tariffs on energy which has translated into high fuel pump prices. It is a well-known fact the rise in fuel pump prices generally does have a spiral effect on the commodity prices in Zambia.
While fuel pump prices and commodities prices have remained high, the annual inflation has been on a slowdown trajectory from 15.1 percent in January 2022 to 10.2 in May 2022. Read more>>>>
Since January 2022, the cost of living around the world and in Zambia has been on an upward trend corresponding to the rise in commodity prices. The cost of living represents the average cost of an accepted standard of living including basic food items and essential non-food items. Cost of living is frequently used to compare minimum income needs in a given location, town, or country. Cost of living measures the change, up or down, in the basic necessities of life, like food, housing, and healthcare. One of the key triggers of the rise in commodity prices in Zambia has been the introduction of cost-reflective tariffs on energy which has translated into high fuel pump prices. It is a well-known fact the rise in fuel pump prices generally does have a spiral effect on the commodity prices in Zambia.
While fuel pump prices and commodities prices have remained high, the annual inflation has been on a slowdown trajectory from 15.1 percent in January 2022 to 10.2 in May 2022. Read more>>>>
Fr. Alex Muyebe, ED
SAFEGUARDING THE COUNTRY’S FOOD SECURITY
On 12th May, the Ministry of Agriculture announced that Zambia is projected to record a 25% drop in
maize output from 3.6 million metric tonnes in 2020/2021 season to 2.7 million metric tonnes in the
2021/2022 season. The projected drop is attributed to drought and a reduced planted area. However,
the ministry was quick to state that the drop will not affect the country’s food security. The ministry
arrived at this position based on the following facts:
On 12th May, the Ministry of Agriculture announced that Zambia is projected to record a 25% drop in
maize output from 3.6 million metric tonnes in 2020/2021 season to 2.7 million metric tonnes in the
2021/2022 season. The projected drop is attributed to drought and a reduced planted area. However,
the ministry was quick to state that the drop will not affect the country’s food security. The ministry
arrived at this position based on the following facts:
- The country had a carryover stock of 1.5 million metric tonnes of maize as at 1st May, which with the addition of 2.7 million metric tonnes would avail 4.2 million metric tonnes of maize for supply in the 2022/2023 agricultural marketing season.
- The country’s population is estimated at 19.2 million with the estimated national requirement for maize to meet consumption demand at 3 million metric tonnes. Therefore, the country is expected to have a surplus of 1.2 million metric tonnes of maize. Read More>>>>
Memorandum on The Administration of Parole and Correctional Supervision: The Decongestion of Correctional Facilities in Zambia Submitted to THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY JOINT COMMITTEE ON NATIONAL SECURITY AND FOREIGN AFFAIRS
Parole was introduced in Zambia in 2008, principally in order to reduce congestion in prison.1 Congestion in prison has been a long-standing problem for Zambia. In 2013, the Human Rights Commission in Zambia released a report on the inspection of the prison and police cells of the Eastern, Western, Northern and Muchinga Provinces (2013 HRC Report). The 2013 HRC Report submitted findings from visits to 90 places of detention. This report found that overcrowding was a major problem for these prisons, as many of the prisons were built during the colonial era, and had capacities far below the occupancy of prisoners they were being asked to support in 2013 Read More>>>
Parole was introduced in Zambia in 2008, principally in order to reduce congestion in prison.1 Congestion in prison has been a long-standing problem for Zambia. In 2013, the Human Rights Commission in Zambia released a report on the inspection of the prison and police cells of the Eastern, Western, Northern and Muchinga Provinces (2013 HRC Report). The 2013 HRC Report submitted findings from visits to 90 places of detention. This report found that overcrowding was a major problem for these prisons, as many of the prisons were built during the colonial era, and had capacities far below the occupancy of prisoners they were being asked to support in 2013 Read More>>>
Press Statement 20th December, 2021
WILL RESOURCES REALIZED FROM SUBSIDY REMOVAL REALLY BE UTILIZED TO CUSHION THE POOR AND VULNERABLE?
On 16th December, 2021, the Energy Regulation Board (ERB) announced fuel price adjustments. Wholesale and pump prices for petroleum products were revised upwards effective midnight 16th December, 2021. The pump price of one litre of Petrol has increased by K3.54 and now pegged at K21.16 from K17.62. The pump price of one litre of diesel was also increased by K4.56 to K20.15 from K15.59. The pump price of one litre of Low Sulphur Gasoil (LSG) was increased from K17.82 to K22.29 which gives an absolute variance of K4.47. Kerosene prices have remained unchanged. This follows an announcement by the government that fuel subsidies will be removed so as to migrate to cost reflective pricing as a measure to return the nation on a path to debt sustainability. This adjustment is part of the economic reforms being implemented by the United Party for National Development (UPND) Government as part of its staff-level agreement with the International Monetary Fund. Read more
WILL RESOURCES REALIZED FROM SUBSIDY REMOVAL REALLY BE UTILIZED TO CUSHION THE POOR AND VULNERABLE?
On 16th December, 2021, the Energy Regulation Board (ERB) announced fuel price adjustments. Wholesale and pump prices for petroleum products were revised upwards effective midnight 16th December, 2021. The pump price of one litre of Petrol has increased by K3.54 and now pegged at K21.16 from K17.62. The pump price of one litre of diesel was also increased by K4.56 to K20.15 from K15.59. The pump price of one litre of Low Sulphur Gasoil (LSG) was increased from K17.82 to K22.29 which gives an absolute variance of K4.47. Kerosene prices have remained unchanged. This follows an announcement by the government that fuel subsidies will be removed so as to migrate to cost reflective pricing as a measure to return the nation on a path to debt sustainability. This adjustment is part of the economic reforms being implemented by the United Party for National Development (UPND) Government as part of its staff-level agreement with the International Monetary Fund. Read more
BNNB Statement 15th November, 2021
INCREASE IN THE MONETARY POLICY RATE MAY WORSEN LIVING CONDITIONS
The cost of living for a family of five as measured by the JCTR Basic Needs and Nutrition Basket (BNNB) for November 2021 stood at K8, 145.28. This is a K123.44 decrease from K8, 268.72 in October 2021. The downward movement in the basket is attributed to reduced prices of items such as 1kg Kapenta which went down by K56.76 from K290.63 to K233.87, 40kg of vegetables which went down by K14.83 from K438.62 to K423.79. Additional reductions were noted in the prices of 14kg of other fruits which reduced by K204.9 from K314.65 to K109.75. However, the November basket also recorded price increases in items such as 10 litres of milk which increased by K52.84 from K244.26 to K297.1, 1kg pounded groundnuts increased by K13.68 from K34.97 to K48.65, 2kg soya pieces increased from K113.68 to K126.46. Additionally, the non-food but essential items section also recorded an increase in a 90kg bag of charcoal from K360 to K378. Read more...
INCREASE IN THE MONETARY POLICY RATE MAY WORSEN LIVING CONDITIONS
The cost of living for a family of five as measured by the JCTR Basic Needs and Nutrition Basket (BNNB) for November 2021 stood at K8, 145.28. This is a K123.44 decrease from K8, 268.72 in October 2021. The downward movement in the basket is attributed to reduced prices of items such as 1kg Kapenta which went down by K56.76 from K290.63 to K233.87, 40kg of vegetables which went down by K14.83 from K438.62 to K423.79. Additional reductions were noted in the prices of 14kg of other fruits which reduced by K204.9 from K314.65 to K109.75. However, the November basket also recorded price increases in items such as 10 litres of milk which increased by K52.84 from K244.26 to K297.1, 1kg pounded groundnuts increased by K13.68 from K34.97 to K48.65, 2kg soya pieces increased from K113.68 to K126.46. Additionally, the non-food but essential items section also recorded an increase in a 90kg bag of charcoal from K360 to K378. Read more...
04th November 2021.
Dear Friends of JCTR,
RE: CALL FOR ARTICLES TO THE FOURTH QUARTER BULLETIN
The Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection (JCTR) is a research, education and advocacy organization that promotes study and action on issues linking Christian faith and social justice in Zambia. Through a faith-based perspective, JCTR strives to critically understand current issues, which emphasize human dignity at individual, household and national levels and generate activities to promote social justice. With the vision to educate, inform, advocate and lobby, JCTR publishes the JCTR quarterly bulletin covering a wide range of topical issues read more>>>
Dear Friends of JCTR,
RE: CALL FOR ARTICLES TO THE FOURTH QUARTER BULLETIN
The Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection (JCTR) is a research, education and advocacy organization that promotes study and action on issues linking Christian faith and social justice in Zambia. Through a faith-based perspective, JCTR strives to critically understand current issues, which emphasize human dignity at individual, household and national levels and generate activities to promote social justice. With the vision to educate, inform, advocate and lobby, JCTR publishes the JCTR quarterly bulletin covering a wide range of topical issues read more>>>
Press Statement – Economic Recovery Programme
14th October 2021
The CSO Debt Alliance is a coalition of Civil Society Organizations that seek to improve public debt management in Zambia in a harmonized manner and create a platform for advancing stronger debt accountability. The Alliance recognizes the importance of a clear and publicly accessible roadmap for debt sustainability which is cardinal for accountable public debt management in Zambia.
In December 2020, the Government released the Economic Recovery Programme (ERP 2020-2023) which had the objectives to restore macroeconomic stability; attain fiscal and debt sustainability; restore growth and diversify the economy; dismantle domestic arrears and avoid accumulation of new arrears; and safeguard social protection programmes.
Since the launch of the ERP, the target to raise international reserves to over 3 months of import cover by 2023 had been met within the first year with the IMFs special Drawing Rights (SDRs) bolstering reserves to 5.4 months (US$ 2.9 billion) of import cover as at end - August 2021. However, the Zambian economy remains far from attaining the outstanding targets stipulated in the programme whilst inhabiting a huge debt burden that had been burgeoning well before the Covid-19 pandemic Read More...
14th October 2021
The CSO Debt Alliance is a coalition of Civil Society Organizations that seek to improve public debt management in Zambia in a harmonized manner and create a platform for advancing stronger debt accountability. The Alliance recognizes the importance of a clear and publicly accessible roadmap for debt sustainability which is cardinal for accountable public debt management in Zambia.
In December 2020, the Government released the Economic Recovery Programme (ERP 2020-2023) which had the objectives to restore macroeconomic stability; attain fiscal and debt sustainability; restore growth and diversify the economy; dismantle domestic arrears and avoid accumulation of new arrears; and safeguard social protection programmes.
Since the launch of the ERP, the target to raise international reserves to over 3 months of import cover by 2023 had been met within the first year with the IMFs special Drawing Rights (SDRs) bolstering reserves to 5.4 months (US$ 2.9 billion) of import cover as at end - August 2021. However, the Zambian economy remains far from attaining the outstanding targets stipulated in the programme whilst inhabiting a huge debt burden that had been burgeoning well before the Covid-19 pandemic Read More...
Press Release 13th September, 2021
WHAT AN INSPIRING SPEECH – NOW WE WAIT FOR ITS ACTUALIZATION
The speech by his Excellency, President Hakainde Hichilema during the ceremonial opening of the 1st Session of the 13th National Assembly was very inspiring and addressed all the major issues affecting this country. From the faith dimension and social justice perspective, there is a lot from HH’s speech that calls for a deeper reflection. Every Zambian of good will must laud HH’s consistency in calling for unity and peaceful co-existence. A call for unity from ethno- and geo-centric perspective emphasizes that we are one despite diversity in ethnicity, race or place of origin. From anthropocentric and theological perspective, humanity has the same origin having been created by God in God’s own image. The unity that Zambians are aspiring for under the new administration is a social-economic equity where the national cake of this richly endowed country is shared by all Zambians. In this context, what divides us is not only diversity in ethnicity or political affiliation but also socio-economic disparities that have divided one people into two societies of “the haves” and “the have-nots”. There can be no unity and peaceful co-existence as long as we continue to have high levels of inequality in this country with the majority of the Zambians living in extreme poverty. It is therefore exciting to hear HH promising that his administration is going to reduce various forms of inequality and create a more equitable society. Read more...
WHAT AN INSPIRING SPEECH – NOW WE WAIT FOR ITS ACTUALIZATION
The speech by his Excellency, President Hakainde Hichilema during the ceremonial opening of the 1st Session of the 13th National Assembly was very inspiring and addressed all the major issues affecting this country. From the faith dimension and social justice perspective, there is a lot from HH’s speech that calls for a deeper reflection. Every Zambian of good will must laud HH’s consistency in calling for unity and peaceful co-existence. A call for unity from ethno- and geo-centric perspective emphasizes that we are one despite diversity in ethnicity, race or place of origin. From anthropocentric and theological perspective, humanity has the same origin having been created by God in God’s own image. The unity that Zambians are aspiring for under the new administration is a social-economic equity where the national cake of this richly endowed country is shared by all Zambians. In this context, what divides us is not only diversity in ethnicity or political affiliation but also socio-economic disparities that have divided one people into two societies of “the haves” and “the have-nots”. There can be no unity and peaceful co-existence as long as we continue to have high levels of inequality in this country with the majority of the Zambians living in extreme poverty. It is therefore exciting to hear HH promising that his administration is going to reduce various forms of inequality and create a more equitable society. Read more...
BNNB Statement
7th September, 2021
A New Hope for the Zambian People through Macroeconomic Stability
The Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection (JCTR) Basic Needs and Nutrition Basket (BNNB) for a family of five living in Lusaka in the month of August 2021 stood at K8, 413.65. This showed a K81.87 decline from the July basket which stood at K8, 495.52. The movement in the basket is attributed to price movements in items such as 2kg of soya pieces which went down by K64.56 to K108.81 from K173.37, 14kg of other fruits which reduced by K18.74 from K316.56 to K297.82, 2kg of beef reduced by K16.57 from K155.14 to K138.57, 3.6 litres of cooking oil showed a decline of K17.17 moving to K148.94 from K166.11, a kg of pounded groundnuts reduced by K15.52 from K61.22 to K45.70, the price of 40kg of vegetables reduced by K15.24 from K517.08 to K501.24. The basket recorded price increases in food items such as 16kg of bananas increased by K36.49 from K217.05 to K253.54 and from the non-food but essential items, the price of 2 90kg bags of charcoal increased by K18.4 from K720 to K738.4.
The abundance of soya beans on the market given the harvesting season has been noted and might have contributed to the downward change in the price of soya pieces. Additionally, the price of other fruits (constitutes apples and oranges)) has shown further decline to K297.82 from the high June price of K431.91, attributed to the significant downwards movements in the exchange rate as other fruits are mainly imported. The other notable decline was in the price of vegetables attributed to seasonal change as the country heads to the warmer season read more...
Write up for the other 15 towns kindly click here....
26th August, 2021
RE: CALL FOR ARTICLES FOR THE THIRD QUARTER BULLETIN
Zambia has just had general elections through which new leadership has been ushered in at different levels. This has brought an air of hope and expectation that the country is going to experience a new type of leadership that will foster the rule of law, economic growth, development and prosperity for the Zambian people. This therefore entails that the role of leadership in economic development, democratization and public confidence and participation is critical. In pursuing sustainable democracy, economic development and safeguarding of livelihoods, there is always a need to choose a good crop of leadership to superintend over government business. In the light of this background, JCTR is calling for articles analyzing various aspects of leadership and how they can play a cardinal role in ensuring economic development as well as promote democratization processes. Read more here
RE: CALL FOR ARTICLES FOR THE THIRD QUARTER BULLETIN
Zambia has just had general elections through which new leadership has been ushered in at different levels. This has brought an air of hope and expectation that the country is going to experience a new type of leadership that will foster the rule of law, economic growth, development and prosperity for the Zambian people. This therefore entails that the role of leadership in economic development, democratization and public confidence and participation is critical. In pursuing sustainable democracy, economic development and safeguarding of livelihoods, there is always a need to choose a good crop of leadership to superintend over government business. In the light of this background, JCTR is calling for articles analyzing various aspects of leadership and how they can play a cardinal role in ensuring economic development as well as promote democratization processes. Read more here
JCTR REFUTES BEING THE SOURCE OF THE STATEMENT ON ELECTION RESULTS PRESS STATEMENT -13th AUGUST 2021
JCTR is shocked to note that there is a statement that has gone viral on social media platforms announcing the results of the just ended elections, which statement is being attributed to JCTR PVT as being the source of that statement. JCTR wishes to inform the general public that JCTR did not independently conduct PVT exercise neither has JCTR released any PVT results. JCTR categorically refutes being the source of the information in the statement that has gone viral on social media. All Zambian citizens are aware that it is only the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) that has the legal mandate to announce the election results. JCTR is therefore calling upon the general public to patiently, calmly and peacefully wait for Read more
JCTR is shocked to note that there is a statement that has gone viral on social media platforms announcing the results of the just ended elections, which statement is being attributed to JCTR PVT as being the source of that statement. JCTR wishes to inform the general public that JCTR did not independently conduct PVT exercise neither has JCTR released any PVT results. JCTR categorically refutes being the source of the information in the statement that has gone viral on social media. All Zambian citizens are aware that it is only the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) that has the legal mandate to announce the election results. JCTR is therefore calling upon the general public to patiently, calmly and peacefully wait for Read more
July BNNB Press Statement - 11th August 2021
The cost of living for a family of five as measured by the Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection (JCTR) Basic Needs and Nutrition Basket (BNNB) for July 2021 in Lusaka stood at K8, 495.52, a K6.04 increase from the K8, 489.48 recorded in June. The minimal increase in the basket is attributed to upward price movements in items such as soya pieces which rose by K54.26 from K119.11 to K173.37 for 2kg. The price of 40kg of vegetables went up by K50.53 from K466.55 to K517.88, 16kg of bananas also increased by K21.59 moving from K195.46 to K217.05, 1kg pounded groundnut went up by K21.86 to K61.22 from K39.36 and 2 kg of beef increased by K15.51, moving from K139.63 to K155.14. These price movement see more
The cost of living for a family of five as measured by the Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection (JCTR) Basic Needs and Nutrition Basket (BNNB) for July 2021 in Lusaka stood at K8, 495.52, a K6.04 increase from the K8, 489.48 recorded in June. The minimal increase in the basket is attributed to upward price movements in items such as soya pieces which rose by K54.26 from K119.11 to K173.37 for 2kg. The price of 40kg of vegetables went up by K50.53 from K466.55 to K517.88, 16kg of bananas also increased by K21.59 moving from K195.46 to K217.05, 1kg pounded groundnut went up by K21.86 to K61.22 from K39.36 and 2 kg of beef increased by K15.51, moving from K139.63 to K155.14. These price movement see more
Press Release10th August, 2021
Prioritizing and Investing in Children Must Outlive the August 12th Polls
The economy of Zambia just like that of many other nations contracted sharply due the adverse impact of the Coronavirus (COVID–19) pandemic. Disruptions brought about by the deadly virus for instance, the closure of schools, continue to affect access to vital aspects of children’s lives and wellbeing such as education and health. According to the Zambia Statistics Agency report on Population Projections and Eligible Voters1 , children account for about 53% of Zambia’s population. Yet the entire budget under child specific expenditure functions in the period 2016 to 2020, on average, was allocated 3% of the national budget in the stated period (increasing from K506.75 million in 2016 to K729.88 million in 2020 as per recent findings of a study conducted by the organisation). This is perhaps an indicator of the inadequate attention accorded to matters affecting the lives of children as far as service delivery functions in the social sector, health, education and water and sanitation are concerned. A narrative that is usually not highlighted during events such as campaigns or elections Read More...
Prioritizing and Investing in Children Must Outlive the August 12th Polls
The economy of Zambia just like that of many other nations contracted sharply due the adverse impact of the Coronavirus (COVID–19) pandemic. Disruptions brought about by the deadly virus for instance, the closure of schools, continue to affect access to vital aspects of children’s lives and wellbeing such as education and health. According to the Zambia Statistics Agency report on Population Projections and Eligible Voters1 , children account for about 53% of Zambia’s population. Yet the entire budget under child specific expenditure functions in the period 2016 to 2020, on average, was allocated 3% of the national budget in the stated period (increasing from K506.75 million in 2016 to K729.88 million in 2020 as per recent findings of a study conducted by the organisation). This is perhaps an indicator of the inadequate attention accorded to matters affecting the lives of children as far as service delivery functions in the social sector, health, education and water and sanitation are concerned. A narrative that is usually not highlighted during events such as campaigns or elections Read More...
Press Release 09th August, 2021
TURN OUT IN LARGE NUMBERS ON THE 12TH AUGUST
One important ingredient of democratic consolidation in Zambia is the holding of regular multi-party elections. However, it should be noted that holding of regular multi-party elections is one thing, while institutionalization and consolidation of democratic governance and ensuring political stability and a peaceful succession of national leadership is quite another. Every time we hold general elections, we have an opportunity as a country to demonstrate to the world that democracy in Zambia has come of age through a well-entrenched democratic practice and culture where the people freely, fairly and peacefully express their wish as to who should govern the country at any given time, and that the will of the people is respected by the contesting candidates Read more>>>
TURN OUT IN LARGE NUMBERS ON THE 12TH AUGUST
One important ingredient of democratic consolidation in Zambia is the holding of regular multi-party elections. However, it should be noted that holding of regular multi-party elections is one thing, while institutionalization and consolidation of democratic governance and ensuring political stability and a peaceful succession of national leadership is quite another. Every time we hold general elections, we have an opportunity as a country to demonstrate to the world that democracy in Zambia has come of age through a well-entrenched democratic practice and culture where the people freely, fairly and peacefully express their wish as to who should govern the country at any given time, and that the will of the people is respected by the contesting candidates Read more>>>
CALL FOR CONSULTANCY 05TH AUGUST 2021
JCTR has for over 30 years been monitoring the cost of living through its urban Basic Needs and Nutrition Basket (BNNB) and just commenced its rural Basic Needs and Nutrition Basket (RBNNB). The findings from the surveys are used to advocate for improved wellbeing of Zambians especially the poor, marginalised and vulnerable. Specifically, the urban BNNB is a monthly survey of prices of essential food and non-food items in selected towns. The RBNNB on the other hand is a quarterly survey assessing prevailing caloric intake and service provision against recommended indicators. Additionally in order to understand how people are coping given the cost of living in high density areas the Centre conducts the Satellite Homes Survey (SHS). The urban and rural BNNB together with the SHS thus form key JCTR tools in its mandate of promoting a faith that does justice READ MORE(TORs)............
JCTR has for over 30 years been monitoring the cost of living through its urban Basic Needs and Nutrition Basket (BNNB) and just commenced its rural Basic Needs and Nutrition Basket (RBNNB). The findings from the surveys are used to advocate for improved wellbeing of Zambians especially the poor, marginalised and vulnerable. Specifically, the urban BNNB is a monthly survey of prices of essential food and non-food items in selected towns. The RBNNB on the other hand is a quarterly survey assessing prevailing caloric intake and service provision against recommended indicators. Additionally in order to understand how people are coping given the cost of living in high density areas the Centre conducts the Satellite Homes Survey (SHS). The urban and rural BNNB together with the SHS thus form key JCTR tools in its mandate of promoting a faith that does justice READ MORE(TORs)............
CALL FOR CONSULTANCY-29th July 2021
DEVELOPMENT OF POSITION PAPER: AMIDST THE DEBT CRISIS CAN THE ARBITRATION PROCESS HELP?
Today, Zambia is classified as a “high risk” case based on the Debt Sustainability Analysis (DSA) models espoused by the Bretton woods institutions. This means that Zambia’s debts have once again reached “unsustainable” levels. Unsustainability entails that (a) the country is not able to meet its obligations when they fall due and (b) when it does, this obligation is undertaken as the expense of critical social, economic and financial national public obligations – “compromising national development.” For instance, almost a hundred percent (100%) of locally mobilized resources are used to service debts while the ratio of Debt-to-GDP by the end of 2020 stood at 104% instead of the standard threshold of thirty-five percent (35% ) as set for Zambia by the International Monetary Fund (IMF). click here to access the TORs
DEVELOPMENT OF POSITION PAPER: AMIDST THE DEBT CRISIS CAN THE ARBITRATION PROCESS HELP?
Today, Zambia is classified as a “high risk” case based on the Debt Sustainability Analysis (DSA) models espoused by the Bretton woods institutions. This means that Zambia’s debts have once again reached “unsustainable” levels. Unsustainability entails that (a) the country is not able to meet its obligations when they fall due and (b) when it does, this obligation is undertaken as the expense of critical social, economic and financial national public obligations – “compromising national development.” For instance, almost a hundred percent (100%) of locally mobilized resources are used to service debts while the ratio of Debt-to-GDP by the end of 2020 stood at 104% instead of the standard threshold of thirty-five percent (35% ) as set for Zambia by the International Monetary Fund (IMF). click here to access the TORs
RE-ADVERTISEMENT; CALL FOR CONSULTANCY - 23rd July 2021
EXTENDED DEADLINE – REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS: CONSULTANCY TO UNDERTAKE A STUDY AND PRODUCE A REPORT ON FACTORS AFFECTING CHILDREN’S ACCESS TO EDUCATION, HEALTH AND SOCIAL PROTECTION IN LUFWANYAMA DISTRICT IN THE COPPERBELT PROVINCE OF ZAMBIA
The Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection is calling for consultancy to undertake a study and produce a report on factors affecting children’s access to education, health and social protection in Lufwanyama district in the Copperbelt province of Zambia. Through partnership with Save the Children Zambia, JCTR is implementing a project called “Public Investment in Children”. The ultimate goal of the project is to contribute to the enhancement of children in Zambia through effective and coordinated practices and policy frameworks with the vision of ensuring that children through their own voices have capacities and platforms to hold their leaders accountable for the use of public resources at the district level. The centre acknowledges that basic services such as the right to adequate education, health and social protection are key in living a dignified life and are also essential for the child protection, dvelopment, participation and survival. In this regard, the centre has been working with likeminded stakeholders to advocate for improved public investment in critical sectors such as health, education and social protection. Click HERE for the Terms of References
The Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection is calling for consultancy to undertake a study and produce a report on factors affecting children’s access to education, health and social protection in Lufwanyama district in the Copperbelt province of Zambia. Through partnership with Save the Children Zambia, JCTR is implementing a project called “Public Investment in Children”. The ultimate goal of the project is to contribute to the enhancement of children in Zambia through effective and coordinated practices and policy frameworks with the vision of ensuring that children through their own voices have capacities and platforms to hold their leaders accountable for the use of public resources at the district level. The centre acknowledges that basic services such as the right to adequate education, health and social protection are key in living a dignified life and are also essential for the child protection, dvelopment, participation and survival. In this regard, the centre has been working with likeminded stakeholders to advocate for improved public investment in critical sectors such as health, education and social protection. Click HERE for the Terms of References
6th July 2021
Radio programmes on community peace building, issue based campaigns and denouncing political violence in Livingstone central.
Community peace building and denouncing political violence. Listen to the audio below.
18th June 2021
CALL FOR CONSULTANCY
The Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection is calling for consultancy to develop a position paper on Fair Arbitration. The basic purpose of arbitration processes associated with indebtedness especially of national nature is premised on the essentiality of an independent international arbitration tribunal or a “Sovereign Debt Tribunal” required for the resolution of sovereign debt restructuring disputes. This type of tribunal has been used as a quicker mechanism to debt restructuring than those provided under the restructuring approaches. Briefly put, mechanisms of fair arbitration on sovereign debt have mainly been concerned with “the need to balance the interests of creditors and sovereign debtors fairly. Click here for the Terms of Reference
Training workshop on Budget submissions in western province. April 2021
The Jesuit Centre For Theological Reflection (JCTR) understands the importance of community participation in the budget processes as enshrined in Article 205(d) part XVI of the constitution under Public Finance and Budget. There, in the quest to encourage and involve the community members in this very important process, JCTR is conducting a training workshop on Budget submissions among members of the community in Mongu western province.
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My vote is loud enough
I am a Zambian Youth, an architect of development and not a tool for political violence. As a responsible citizen and Youth of mother Zambia, violence is not my language because my vote is loud enough.
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