Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection (JCTR) Digital Repository
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May 2025 Cost of Living Statement
No full textThe May 2025 Basic Needs and Nutrition Basket (BNNB) Statement by the Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection (JCTR) highlights the continued high cost of living in Zambia, with the BNNB standing at ZMW 11,272.97 — a year-on-year increase of ZMW 571.84. Despite a marginal month-on-month decrease attributed to seasonal food availability, the statement underscores the structural challenges that render essential commodities unaffordable for the majority, particularly the poor and marginalised. It further analyses the implications of seasonal price volatility on household budgeting, nutrition, and vulnerability. The document concludes with policy recommendations centred on strengthening post-harvest infrastructure, promoting food and nutrition literacy, encouraging urban agriculture, and advancing agroecological practices to build resilient food systems.Norwegian Church Aid and Danish Church Aid alliance (JCP Zambia
Statement: The Proposed Constitutional Amendments Aimed at Fundamentally Removing Term Limits and Election Systems
No full textThis press statement by the Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection (JCTR), dated 4th May 2025, provides a critical analysis of Zambia’s proposed constitutional amendments, specifically those concerning the removal of term limits and changes to the electoral system. The document argues that the amendments could pave the way for authoritarianism by weakening democratic safeguards, particularly by eroding checks and balances and consolidating executive power. JCTR highlights the potential risks of politicising local governance, undermining voter representation, and inflating parliamentary control through an increased number of nominated Members of Parliament. The Centre recommends a halt to the process, calls for inclusive consultations, and advocates for comprehensive constitutional reform guided by principles that promote transparency, accountability, and citizen-focused development
Statement on US Aid Cut to Health Sector Due to Drug Theft
No full textThe Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection (JCTR) has responded with grave concern to the US Government’s decision to cut $50 million (K1.4 billion) in medical aid to Zambia, citing systemic theft of US-donated drugs and inadequate government action. Highlighting the impact on the poor and vulnerable, JCTR calls the crisis a violation of human dignity and Catholic Social Teaching. The Centre outlines key recommendations including publication of the ZAMMSA audit, protection of whistleblowers, fast-tracked prosecutions, digitisation of the drug supply chain, and strengthened community monitoring. JCTR urges the government to act decisively and transparently to rebuild trust and ensure access to life-saving medicines
2025 Holy Week Celebration: Tuesday Reflection
No full textThis reflection for Tuesday of Holy Week invites us to explore the call to lay down our lives for Jesus by standing in solidarity with others, particularly the poor, the suffering, and the marginalised. Drawing from John 13: 21–38, the meditation contrasts Judas’s betrayal and Peter’s denial with the ultimate transformation of Peter’s life into one of sacrificial leadership. Inspired by Christ’s question—“Will you lay down your life for me?”— the reflection challenges readers to act selflessly, defend justice, and live out the Gospel through concrete love for neighbour. It is a timely reminder to journey closely with the suffering Christ throughout Holy Week
2025 Holy Week Celebration: Wednesday Reflection
No full textThis reflection for Wednesday of Holy Week—often known as Spy Wednesday—invites us to consider the betrayal of Jesus by Judas Iscariot in light of our own lives. Drawing from Matthew 26:14–25, the meditation explores how acts of betrayal are still present today in broken promises, infidelity, gossip, and abandonment. Through the lens of Ignatian spirituality and African wisdom, it challenges us to remain faithful to Christ by upholding dignity, loyalty, and compassion in our relationships with others, especially the vulnerable. As we prepare to enter the Easter Triduum, we are encouraged to journey closely with Jesus and those who carry the weight of suffering
Call for JCTR Second Quarter Bulletin Articles
No full textThis is a call for article submissions to the second quarter edition of the JCTR Bulletin, themed around "Governance and Environmental Justice." The publication invites contributions that explore citizen engagement in governance, particularly in the context of Zambia’s constitutional amendment process, and critical reflections on environmental sustainability. Submissions are welcomed from a broad range of stakeholders including the public, academics, civil society, and policy makers. The deadline for submissions is May 23, 2025.
Keywords: JCTR, governance, environmental justice, citizen engagement, Zambia, bulletin, call for articles, constitutional reform, social justice
Bulletin No. 134
Full text linkThis bulletin (JCTR Bulletin No. 134) delves into critical socio-economic and governance issues in Zambia, providing in-depth analyses and recommendations on topics such as corruption, political party financing, decentralisation, and the Constituency Development Fund (CDF). The articles examine whether the UPND-led government demonstrates sufficient political will to combat corruption, challenges in decentralisation from central to local government, and the operational realities of the CDF framework. Additional discussions include safeguarding civil liberties, the judiciary's autonomy, and the impact of climate change on food security in rural Zambia. The publication underscores the importance of transparency, inclusivity, and accountability in fostering justice and equity. It serves as both a reflective and practical guide for stakeholders committed to Zambia's socio-economic development
January 2025 BNNB Statement
No full textThe Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection (JCTR) has released the January 2025 Basic Needs and Nutrition Basket (BNNB), which stands at ZMW 10,800.56 for a family of five in Lusaka, reflecting a marginal decrease of ZMW 32.90 from December 2024. The reduction is primarily due to lower prices for commodities such as kapenta and vegetables, although other essentials, including onions, fruits, and charcoal, have increased in cost. Despite this slight decline, the cost of living remains alarmingly high, exacerbating economic challenges faced by households. In 2024, factors such as drought-related food shortages, rising fuel prices, and the energy crisis further strained livelihoods, compromising food security and overall well-being. Guided by Catholic Social Teaching, JCTR calls on the government to take decisive action by strengthening agricultural value chains, implementing a quarterly review of fuel prices, enhancing transparency and accountability in local authorities, and encouraging household-level solidarity to support vulnerable groups. Without urgent interventions, inequalities, poverty, and food insecurity may worsen. JCTR remains committed to advocating for economic justice and policy reforms that promote human dignity and ensure access to essential goods and services.Norwegian Church Aid and Danish Church Aid alliance (JCP) Zambi
Consultancy to Produce Documentary on Climate Change
No full textThe Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection (JCTR), in partnership with Misereor, is implementing the Community Action on Climate Change Adaptation and Environmental Management project across multiple dioceses in Zambia. As part of this initiative, JCTR seeks the services of a consultant to develop a television documentary that highlights the impact of climate change on community livelihoods, adaptation strategies, and JCTR’s interventions. The documentary will serve as an advocacy tool, showcasing stakeholder voices, beneficiary experiences, and the importance of policy engagement in addressing climate change challenges. The consultancy will involve research, script development, production, and final delivery of a 30-minute documentary for national broadcast. Interested applicants must demonstrate expertise in media production, storytelling, and documentary filmmaking, with a strong track record of delivering high-quality content.Misereo
Climate Vulnerability Risk Assessment Report
No full textThis report presents the findings of a Community Climate Vulnerability Risk Assessment conducted in Chongwe, Rufunsa, and Luangwa districts of Zambia. The study highlights the increasing threats posed by climate change, including prolonged droughts, erratic rainfall, deforestation, and food insecurity, which disproportionately affect small-scale farmers and vulnerable groups.
Through qualitative research methods, the assessment identifies key climate risks, community vulnerabilities, and adaptation efforts. The findings underscore the urgent need for climate-smart agriculture, improved water management, access to reliable climate information, and stronger policy interventions to enhance community resilience. The report provides practical recommendations for policymakers, development agencies, and local communities to mitigate climate risks and foster sustainable development. It serves as a critical resource for stakeholders working towards a climate-resilient Zambia.Hivo