Rédaction Africa Links 24 with babucarr balajo
Published on 2024-03-20 09:39:23
The rising cost of living is a global issue, affecting countries all over the world, including The Gambia. In recent years, the prices of basic commodities have skyrocketed, putting a strain on the population. The most concerning aspect of this trend is the sharp increase in the prices of food items, such as rice, oil, sugar, and onions. Many Gambians are finding it difficult to afford three square meals a day, as the cost of these essential goods continues to rise.
One of the contributing factors to this problem is the opportunistic behavior of some traders who take advantage of people’s desperation by hiking prices arbitrarily. It is not uncommon for prices to change drastically overnight, with traders citing importers hiking prices due to the depreciation of the dalasi as the reason for the increases. This cycle of price hikes only exacerbates the already dire situation faced by many Gambians.
Acknowledging the severity of the situation, the Central Bank of The Gambia, under Governor Buah Saidy, the Ministry of Trade, under Baboucarr Joof, and the Ministry of Finance and Economic Affairs, under Seedy Keita, have been working diligently to find solutions to curb the rising cost of living. President Barrow has also given these officials the mandate to address the issue of escalating prices of basic goods and commodities. While long-term strategies are being developed to tackle the root causes of the problem, the immediate plight of the people must not be overlooked.
Collaboration between the government, The Gambia Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and other relevant stakeholders is crucial in ensuring the country achieves food security and maintains stability in the prices of essential goods. Governments possess the necessary tools and resources to intervene and alleviate the burden on the population. It is imperative that all parties work together to find sustainable solutions to alleviate the financial strain on the people.
In conclusion, the rising cost of living is a pressing issue that requires urgent attention and concerted efforts from all stakeholders involved. While external factors may contribute to the problem, it is essential for the government to take proactive measures to mitigate the impact on the population. By working together towards a common goal of achieving food security and stabilizing prices, The Gambia can overcome the challenges posed by the current economic situation.
Read the original article on The Standard
