The Civil Society for Poverty Reduction (CSPR) and the Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection (JCTR) have convened the national consultative meeting in a bid to address the high cost of living in Zambia.

The meeting discussed a wide range of issues stretching from the current data and trends related to the cost of living, poverty rates and reflections on areas for improvement in line with the current Government social-economic policies was officiated by the CSPR Executive Director Ms. Faides Tembatemba and the keynote address was delivered by the JCP Country Director Mr. Jonathan Lea-Howarth.

The presentation on the macroeconomic overview was delivered by the Centre for Trade Policy and Development (CTPD) Head of Research Mr. Ibrahim Kamara, and cost of living and poverty rates by Ms. Muchimba from the Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection (JCTR). Adding to the wealth of knowledge, a panel discussion comprising the Civic Forum for Housing Habitat, Millers Association of Zambia, JCTR, and CSPR dissected the theme and provided recommendations for consideration by duty bearers.

The meeting was attended by various stakeholders including Members of Parliament, Line Ministries, Civil Society Organisations, Representatives from the Bank of Zambia, the Ward Development Committee, and Social Cash Transfer beneficiaries.