— Theological society launches urban Basic Needs Basket in Chinsali

Theological society launches urban Basic Needs Basket in Chinsali

Chinsali, August 28, 2014, ZANIS —- An urban Basic Needs Basket (BNB) under the Jesuit Center for Theological Reflection (JCTR) has been launched in Chinsali District, today.

Chinsali District Commissioner Evelyn Kangwa says despite many developmental programmes and projects initiated and implemented by various stake holders, the status of many Zambians has not changed significantly.

Ms Kangwa said rural poverty reduced by 2 percent from 80.3 percent in 2006 to 77.9 percent in 2010.

She added that this poverty picture shows that Zambia is progressing in some areas while she is also going backwards in other areas.

ZANIS reports that the Chinsali D.C revealed this in an interview at her office today.

The DC said as much as government is the duty bearer in spearheading national development, it is important for citizens to recognize that efforts to improve people’s lives cannot be left to the State alone.

Ms Kangwa therefore said broad based poverty, development approach and efforts by different stakeholders will be crucial if poverty alleviation is to be a reality in Chinsali and Zambia as a whole.

She said this during the launch of the Chinsali Basic Needs Basket organised by JCTR a faith based organisation involved in efforts of promoting Integral Human Development.

Ms Kangwa explained that the BNB is a monthly household survey that looks at what an average family size living in Chinsali requires in order to lead a noble life.

The DC said the BNB has been and can be used in various ways by different stakeholders such as in industrial collective bargaining, improved conditions of services and promote innovation among others.

She added that the BNB is also a tool for attaining structural change that will help people live a more dignified life.