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Gambians Raise Concerns Over SoaringCommodity Prices

By: Fatoumatta Krubally

The rising cost of basic commodities has become a significant concern for many Gambians, with numerous individuals expressing their frustrations during conversations at popular food markets. 

The prices of essentials like rice, oil, and onions have skyrocketed, leaving many families feeling the pinch.

Fatou Darboe, a fish seller and mother of three, shared her thoughts on the matter, stating, “The increasing prices are a burden for poor families. I want to provide for my children, but the high costs make it challenging to sell my goods at a profit.” She went on to express her worries about the future, saying, “I fear that if prices keep rising, I won’t be able to afford the basic necessities for my family. It’s a tough situation for all of us.”

Susan, a customer at the Serrekunda market, echoed Fatou’s concerns, saying, “Everything is costly, and my limited budget is a significant worry.” She elaborated, “I used to buy enough food for the week, but now I have to cut back. I find myself choosing between buying rice or vegetables. It’s heartbreaking.” 

This shared frustration among consumers highlights the economic strain that families are facing daily.

Modou Sarr, a trader in Serrekunda, pointed out that the sharp increase in prices is largely due to the substantial amounts of money paid at the ports. He explained, “If traders are faced with high costs at the ports, we have no choice but to raise our prices to avoid losses. We want to keep our customers happy, but we also need to survive.” Modou also shared how he has noticed a decline in sales, stating, “Many customers are now buying less than before, which impacts my livelihood.”

Issac Jallow, a civil servant and regular market-goer, also voiced his complaints about the escalating prices of food commodities. He remarked, “The cost of a pot of pepper has risen from D150 to D450. It’s becoming increasingly difficult for families to manage their budgets.” He added, “I’ve had to rethink my shopping habits. I used to buy fresh produce every week, but now I’m looking for cheaper alternatives, which is not ideal.”

In light of these challenges, Issac proposed agricultural mechanization as a potential solution to improve local production. He emphasized, “We need better agricultural practices to help reduce our reliance on expensive imports. This could ultimately lead to lower prices for consumers.” His call for action reflects a desire for sustainable solutions that could alleviate the financial strain on households.

This collective frustration and the search for solutions underscore the broader economic challenges faced by many Gambians today. As the community grapples with rising prices, it is clear that urgent action is needed to support families and traders alike, ensuring that basic necessities remain accessible to all.

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