JCTR predicts increase in cost of living for October

Chanda Paul Chileshe

The Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection (JCTR) has predicted an upwards rise in the cost of living for October 2018.

In a statement, JCTR Social and Economic Development Programme Officer, Chanda Paul Chileshe says local producers are expected to increase commodity prices as they try to cushion themselves against increased cost of production instigated by increased fuel prices and in the process the consumer will pay the brunt of the fuel hike.

Mr Chanda says the centre expects the adjusted fuel prices to negatively impact the prices of essential goods and services such as food, water, sanitation, electricity, health care and housing.

He says the JCTR is therefore urging government to locally accelerate the process of exploring and production of oil as this will increase supply of oil and henceforth reduce fuel prices.

He notes that reduced fuel rates would cushion Zambia from the high cost of living due to the fact that fuel is a major determinant.

Mr Chanda says the JCTR is further urging the government to enhance transparency when procuring petroleum Feestock in accordance with the provisions of the Zambia public procurement authority.

He adds that the centre further calls for the enhancement and strengthening of Indeni Petroleum refinery’s financial structures to allow for efficient purchase of petroleum.