Kenya’s inflation in October rose to an annual 15,7% from 13,8% in September, led by an increase in food costs, the Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS) said on Wednesday.
The underlying inflation rate, which does not include changes in prices of foodstuffs, also inched up to 6% from 5,7% the month before.
”Food and non-alcoholic drink index rose by 2,9% in October 2006 compared to September 2006. This was mainly attributed to increase in prices of English potatoes, sugar, cabbages and dry beans,” the CBS said in a statement.
The fuel and power index was the second highest climber, gaining 1,2% on the month.
This was ”due to increase in the cost of electricity as a result of rise in fuel adjustment costs,” CBS said.
The bureau collects data every second and third week of the month from shops in 13 towns in the country. It is seen as representing the spending behaviour of urban Kenyan households. – Reuters