Back to Index

Consumer basket now $75 000
Joseph Madzimure, The Herald (Zimbabwe)
August 08, 2006

http://www1.herald.co.zw/inside.aspx?sectid=6974&cat=8&livedate=8/4/2006

THE cost of living for a family of six for the month of July surged to $75 439 ($75,4 million), up by 23,5 percent from the June figure of $61 000 ($61 million), according to statistics released by the Consumer Council of Zimbabwe (CCZ) yesterday.

The CCZ said notable increases were recorded in washing powder, which went up 138,1 percent and flour by 73,5 percent, roller meal by 67,7 percent, clothing and footwear 46,7 percent.

The consumer watchdog said meat went up by 40 percent, bread by 39,6 percent, transport by 36,4 percent, rice by 29,9 percent and vegetables by 28,3 percent.

The water and electricity component in the monthly expenditure basket reflected an increase following the 55 percent tariff increase by Zesa Holdings on July 1.

"Transport operators have continued to increase the fares per trip thereby impacting on consumer budgets with June transport costs increasing by 46,7 percent whilst July fares were increased by an average of 36,4 percent," said the CCZ.

Following the transport increase in June and July, CCZ called upon all transport operators to stop overcharging consumers and blaming it on procurement of spare parts among other reasons as it is not everyday that a vehicle goes for repairs.

The consumer watchdog is of the opinion that a vehicle that required constant repairs was most likely to be unroadworthy.

However, CCZ welcomes the removal of three zeros by the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe as part of its currency reform initiatives.

"We believe this is a move, which will make it convenient to carry cash, as several consumers had been moving around with large sums, which made them susceptible to theft.

"We urge consumers to maintain vigilance and ensure that prices are not increased on the pretext of removal of zeros.

"Consumers should report any retailers and manufacturers who increase prices unjustifiably for investigation," added the consumer watchdog.

Please credit www.kubatana.net if you make use of material from this website. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons License unless stated otherwise.

TOP