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Food basket for a family of five rises to over K9,000 per month

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2 months ago

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THE cost of the food basket for a family of five has risen to over K9,000 per month, as reported by the Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection (JCTR).

According to JCTR, the food basket has increased from K8,850 to K9,146, with concerns that it might escalate further without effective strategies in place.

The center highlights that families, particularly in Lusaka, are currently spending close to K9,000 monthly to meet their basic needs.

JCTR has since called on Government, private sector and civil society to collaborate and help put strategies in place that will help cushion the high cost of living.

The Centre says that according to their statistics, both food and non-food items are measured using the Basic Needs and Nutrition Basket (BNNB) and it has shown an increase this year.

“According to statistics the BNNB for the month of September this year in Lusaka stood at K9,146.06.This is in comparison to the recorded figure of K8, 850.38 around the same time period in September, 2022.

Our research observed that the average price of charcoal reduced from K455 per 90 kilogram (kg)bag to K370 per 90kg bag. The research also revealed an increase in the prices of food items such as roller mealie meal which increased from K180.83 per 25kg bag to K217.14 per 25kg bag. Food items such as vegetables also recorded an increase in prices from K413.88 per 40 kg to K453.37 per 40 kg,” reads the report.

The report also cited that the September basket underscores the impact of seasonal shifts, particularly as the country transitions into the hot season, on the contents of both the food and non-food components within the basket.

The Centre stated that comparing the BNNB charcoal price data from the past two years during the same time frame provides valuable insights.

“However, it is equally vital to recognize that families are often faced with additional financial burdens beyond the essentials, and addressing these broader economic challenges is essential for improving the overall well-being of households,” read the report.

The report suggests that to achieve this, government, civil society and the private sector should have open and honest conversations, collaborate and develop sustainable strategies that address the root causes of high living costs.

The report also suggested that some interventions may include adopting an approach that encompasses measures to combat inflation, increase income levels, and enhance the accessibility and affordability of essential goods and services including fuel pump prices.

(Mwebantu, Tuesday,  17th October, 2023)

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MultiChoice launches GOtv Stream in Zambia. A new way to experience the best of sports and entertainment!

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18 hours ago

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December 2, 2023

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NO stranger to bringing entertainment into homes across the nation, MultiChoice is expanding its online offering, by introducing GOtv Stream to GOtv customers across Zambia.

“It is no secret that more and more people are leaning toward streaming services to experience uninterrupted entertainment that’s uninhibited by infomercials and ads. GOtv Stream is just another way MultiChoice Zambia is continuing our trend of upward innovation, as we strive to evolve with our audiences and their viewing needs.”, says Leah Kooma, Managing Director, MultiChoice Zambia

MultiChoice and DStv have already made their presence in the digital space with their online platform – DStv Stream, and now GOtv customers can enjoy the same user-friendly, and personalized streaming at their fingertips. The new feature allows viewers to seamlessly watch their favourite programmes and other content on electronic devices, keeping them connected at any time and from anywhere.

Ms Kooma reiterates that, “You may recall, GOtv was officially launched in Zambia on 5th September 2011, and now with the introduction of GOtv Stream customers will enjoy a great online service. What drives innovation for us, is providing our customers with the content they love, in the way that best suits them. As the home of the best sports and entertainment we will continue to deliver unrivalled value and choice for our customers”.

She adds: “GOtv Stream is an online service that will allow all GOtv customers take a subscription and enjoy our content anywhere and at any time. The launch of GOtv will allow us to expand our online offering and bring more great entertainment closure to the customers”.

Some of the functionality available are; Live TV, TV guide, CatchUp, use on up to four devices, downloading content to devices, and Live Chat. All paid up GOtv customers, with an internet connection can download and use GOtv Stream for free – available on Google Play Store or the Apple App Store.

(Mwebantu, Saturday, 2nd December, 2023)

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Government secures an equity partner for Mopani Copper Mines

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1 day ago

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December 1, 2023

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FOLLOWING the ongoing negotiations to revamp operations at Mopani Copper Mines on the Copperbelt, Government has finally secured an equity partner.

The Equity partner being International Resources Holdings (IRH) an affiliate of Abu Dhabi Conglomerate International holding was selected after an extensive process.

The process was undertaken by ZCCM-IH, together with Rose Child and Company, a company based in South Africa.

In carrying out the process of revamping the mine, which started last year in June, the process focussed on assessing Mopani’s balance sheet due to high level indebtedness and also finding a suitable partner for sustainable development.

Announcing the development, Mines and Minerals Development Minister Paul Kabuswe said the selection of an equity partner will help restore life back into Mopani.

“I wish to announce and I am so glad and exited to announce that after extensive and thorough process, Government through the directors of ZCCM-IH have appointed a strategic equity partner for Mopani. The preferred partner selected is International Resource Holding Limited an affiliate of Abu Dhabi Conglomerate International holding company,” he said.

He said the partner selected is expected to inject funds into Mopani to stabilise short term work requirements, completion of the mine projects and unlock its potential.

Mr Kabuswe also stated that the equity partner will also reset the existing relationship with Glencore.

He further added that other details of the development at Mopani will be announced in due course when signing of the deal is being made.

(Mwebantu, Friday, 1st December, 2023)

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Over 30 people trapped after a mine accident in Chingola

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2 days ago

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December 1, 2023

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MORE than 30 people are believed to be trapped in an open pit mine in Chingola district on the Copperbelt after a mining accident.

Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security Jack Mwiimbu said the affected are trapped as a result of earth collapsing and has since asked the nation at large to put the affected in prayer.

Mr Mwiimbu speaking in Parliament said more than 30 people are trapped and the rescue team is on site

“May I just inform the nation that we have a tragedy that is brewing in Chingola where a number of our people have been affected by a collapse of the open pit in Chingola. We have more than 30 people under the rubble and we are struggling to retrieve them. We would like to ask all of us to put our citizens in prayer,” he said.

(Mwebantu, Friday,  1st December,  2023)

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