Amid escalating economic challenges in Ghana, Ga Kenkey vendors situated in Accra are contemplating a significant shift in their pricing strategy as they warn – ‘No More Free Pepper’.
Formerly offered as a complimentary addition, vendors are considering implementing charges for the accompanying pepper, reflecting broader concerns about the worsening economic landscape and its impact on the cost of living.
Recent economic indicators underscore a slight uptick in Ghana’s year-on-year inflation rate, registering at 23.5% for January 2024. This surge in inflation places Ghana among other Sub-Saharan African nations grappling with notably elevated inflation rates, indicating a pressing economic strain on the populace.
Particularly alarming is the inflationary surge affecting essential ingredients integral to staple Ghanaian meals, including Jollof, Banku, Fufu, and Kenkey. In January, inflation rates for these staples exceeded 40%, exacerbating the financial burden on consumers already grappling with rising living costs.
Fresh tomatoes, which carry significant weight in the determination of national inflation, have experienced a staggering 52.3% surge in price. Additionally, other indispensable components such as pepper, onions, and fish have seen inflation rates double that of the national average, reflecting the broader economic challenges facing households across Ghana. Amidst such inflationary pressures, vendors are compelled to reassess their pricing structures to navigate the evolving economic landscape while maintaining their livelihoods.
The prices of goods have gone up in the market. The price of the green pepper has increased astronomically. If we don’t increase the prices of kenkey, we will run at a loss.”
There’s a high possibility we might start selling the red pepper and the shito. We can’t continue to give it for free. We will package them in small bottles and sell them. Very soon the pepper will be sold.” Some Kenkey sellers remarked.
I like kenkey so if the pepper is going to be sold, we will buy it. Prices of goods are very high now, it’s not their fault, so I understand them.
I think it’s outrageous. Some Kenkey buyers opined.
