

The Namibia Statistics Agency reports that annual inflation rose to 3.6 percent in October, up from 3.5 percent in September and 3 percent a year ago. Zonal data shows that Zone 3, covering the South, Erongo, and Omaheke regions, recorded the highest maize meal prices, while Zone 2, representing the Khomas region, paid the lowest. The Statistics Agency says the rise in inflation is mainly driven by food and non-alcoholic beverages, housing, and utilities. Core inflation, which excludes volatile items such as food and energy, stood slightly higher at 3.7 percent, indicating persistent underlying price pressures. Here is Mirjam Shihepo, the spokesperson for the NSA.