ZAMBIA’S INFLATION FALLS TO 9.4% IN JANUARY, LOWEST LEVEL SINCE 2021
By: Sun FM TV Reporter
Zambia’s annual inflation rate dropped to 9.4 percent in January 2026, marking its lowest level since late 2021, according to the latest Consumer Price Index (CPI) report released by the Zambia Statistics Agency (ZamStats).
This represents a notable decline from the 11.2 percent recorded in December 2025.
The report attributes the slowdown to moderated price increases across both food and non-food categories.
ZamStats emphasized that the CPI is based on a 2009 benchmark and continues to serve as a key indicator for tracking cost-of-living changes across the country.
Acting Statistician General Sheila Mudenda described the development as a sign of sustained disinflationary momentum.
Ms Mudenda stated that the decline from 11.2 percent in December was driven by easing price pressures across both food and non-food categories.
She revealed that the development was attributed to price movements in both food and non-food items.
On average, prices of goods and services increased by 9.4 percent between January 2025 and January 2026, highlighting a continued downward trend that began in early 2025.
A line graph included in the report shows inflation peaking at 16.8 percent in February 2025 before gradually easing month by month.
The consistent decline reflects the impact of tighter monetary policies, improved supply chains, and seasonal factors influencing food prices.