The Jesuit Center for Theological Reflections urges Government to transcend policy pronouncements and statements of intent and show equal resolve in accelerated implementation of poverty reduction strategies and programs through timely release of development-oriented resources.
In a statement made available, JCTR Copperbelt, North-Western and Luapula provinces Tendai Posiana says according to the JCTR monthly research for Ndola, Kitwe and Launshya the cost of living remains relatively on the high.
The JCTR findings of BNB for the month of June for Ndola stood at 3,194.33 while for July stands at 3,251.58 which reflect an upward increase.
Meanwhile Kitwe for the month of June stood at 2,593.90 while in July at 2,614.66 and lastly for Luanshya stood at 2,625.35 while that of July stands at 2,670.48.
Ms Posiana notes that Zambia imports lots of commodities, except mealie meal, vegetables, meat and some fish. If the exchange rate of the Kwacha against the dollar falls, that leads to price rises, because fuel costs go up and traders want to pass the extra cost to consumers.
She advises the Bank of Zambia to put in place strategic monetary policies that will help control inflation to make Zambia a strong economy.
Furthermore, Government should ensure that they put in place deliberate policy such as encouraging local manufacturers to add value to their products for exportation as this will raise foreign exchange for the country and that will reduce excessive borrowing by the Government.
We advise Government to encourage its people to diversify the economy from Copper to Agriculture as this can help consolidate our economy.
She however, recommends to the patriotic front Government to ensure that development efforts aimed at increasing the long-term coping capabilities of majority of households have access to basic needs such as food, clean water, health and shelter.
She further says JCTR, acknowledges some measures taken by Government such as the social cash transfer scheme to cushion some households against the high cost of living and ensure vulnerable families’ have access to basic needs.
It is highly unlikely that the concerned will spend a minute to reflect on this report. If you had advised on how to win bye elections, you would have had several calls by now asking for details.
Don’t be deceived. Find out who the JESUITS are and what they stand for. It is not justice.
And yet some scottish guy is saying this govt is performing,sorry i miss RB
Diversification is the national project. Seek audience with Manufacturers Association, Farmers Union, Chamber of Commerce and Industry, etc. A moral lesson is rather misguided.