Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Mr. Gaye TheVoice
Published on 2024-03-19 08:33:36
Market vendors in The Gambia are voicing their concerns over the rising prices of basic commodities, particularly during the month of Ramadan. They are calling on the government to intervene and implement swift solutions to alleviate the burden on families and the needy.
During Ramadan, market vendors are facing challenges due to the steep increase in prices of essential goods. This includes both locally produced and imported products, leading to worries among vendors and consumers alike.
Aja Binta Marong, a market vendor, expressed that it is not their intention to sell products at such high prices. They would prefer to offer commodities at more affordable rates, but the need to make a profit to support their families leaves them with little choice. She highlighted the heavy reliance on imported food in The Gambia, which contributes to the inflation of prices in the market.
Ramatoulie Jallow emphasized the necessity for price controls on imported and locally grown food products in The Gambia. Without such measures, the cost of living will continue to rise, making it challenging for ordinary citizens to afford basic necessities. The inconsistency in prices for the same products, despite being acquired at similar costs, reflects the lack of regulations and the exploitation by some shopkeepers.
Lamin Ceesay proposed a return to agriculture as a solution to the current situation. He highlighted the vast arable land in the country, suitable for agricultural activities, but noted the reluctance of many individuals to engage in farming. He cited the government’s failure to purchase groundnuts from farmers at the promised price, which discourages farmers and hampers agricultural productivity.
Awa Saidy, a vegetable seller, described the increasing challenges faced by individuals in The Gambia. High house rents, escalating costs of goods, and government restrictions on market areas add to the hardships experienced by vendors. She pointed out that the high cost of living and lack of job opportunities contribute to the rising crime rate in the country, urging the president to intervene and alleviate the situation.
Overall, the market vendors in The Gambia are urging for immediate government action to address the soaring prices of commodities during Ramadan. They emphasize the need for price controls, a focus on local agricultural production, and support for small-scale farmers to improve the affordability of essential goods for all citizens. The current economic challenges faced in The Gambia require urgent intervention to prevent further hardship on vulnerable populations.
Read the original article on The Voice Gambia
