Childcare & Daycare Costs in Zambia
Updated March 2026 · 10 items
Compare daycare, nanny, and baby supply costs in Zambia. From home-based care to premium Montessori programs.
Childcare Prices
Home-Based Daycare
Informal, neighbourhood-based
ZMK 300 – 800/month
Daycare Centre (Basic)
Registered, structured program
ZMK 800 – 1,500/month
Daycare Centre (Mid-Range)
Meals included, qualified staff
ZMK 1,500 – 3,000/month
Premium Daycare / Montessori
International curriculum, small classes
ZMK 3,000 – 6,000/month
Live-In Nanny
Full-time, accommodation provided
ZMK 1,200 – 3,000/month
Part-Time Nanny
Half-day or specific hours
ZMK 600 – 1,500/month
After-School Care
Pickup + supervision until 5-6 PM
ZMK 500 – 1,200/month
Baby Supplies (Monthly)
Formula, diapers, basics
ZMK 500 – 1,500
Diapers (Pack of 30)
Pampers, Huggies, local brands
ZMK 80 – 180
Baby Formula (400g)
NAN, S-26, Lactogen
ZMK 120 – 350
Childcare in Zambia — What Parents Need to Know
Childcare options in Zambia range from informal home-based care (most affordable) to international Montessori programs (most structured). Most working parents rely on a combination of family support, nannies, and daycare centres. The sector is regulated by the Ministry of Community Development, though enforcement varies.
Choosing a Daycare
Visit facilities in person before enrolling. Check teacher-to-child ratios (ideal: 1:5 for toddlers, 1:8 for pre-school), hygiene standards, meal programs, and outdoor play areas. Ask about qualifications of caregivers and emergency procedures. Many centres offer trial days at ZMK 50-100.
Nanny vs Daycare
A live-in nanny (ZMK 1,200-3,000/month) offers flexibility and one-on-one attention but less social interaction for children. Daycare centres (ZMK 800-6,000/month) provide structured learning and socialisation. Many families use both — nanny for mornings and evenings, daycare for structured hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does daycare cost in Lusaka?
Daycare in Lusaka ranges from ZMK 800-1,500/month for basic centres to ZMK 3,000-6,000/month for premium Montessori programs. Home-based care is cheapest at ZMK 300-800/month. Most daycare centres accept children aged 6 months to 5 years. Registration fees (one-time) are typically ZMK 200-500.
How much should I pay a nanny in Zambia?
A live-in nanny costs ZMK 1,200-3,000/month plus accommodation and meals. Part-time nannies charge ZMK 600-1,500/month. Experienced nannies with childcare certificates or those who speak English fluently command higher rates. Always verify references and consider a trial period.
What is the best daycare in Lusaka?
Popular options include Little Stars Montessori (Kabulonga), Bright Beginnings (Rhodes Park), and Zambia Montessori (Ibex Hill). International daycares like Apple Tree and Rainbow Academy follow international curricula. Visit facilities in person, check teacher-to-child ratios, and ask about meal programs.
How much do diapers cost in Zambia?
Diapers cost ZMK 80-180 per pack of 30. Pampers and Huggies are the most popular brands. Budget alternatives include Fine Baby and local brands at ZMK 60-100. Buying in bulk (mega packs) saves 15-20%. A baby typically uses 6-8 diapers per day, costing ZMK 400-800/month.