Rising Food Prices Put Pressure on Households in Pujehun

Consumers and food traders in Pujehun Town have raised concerns over rising prices of essential food commodities, with the ongoing rainy season affecting transportation, farming activities and the supply of locally produced food to markets.

A visit to markets in Pujehun Town by a Radio Wanjei reporter found that prices of several commonly consumed food commodities have increased, putting additional pressure on household budgets, particularly for low-income families.

Kula Mbogba, a buyer at the Pujehun Market, said the rising cost of basic commodities has made it increasingly difficult for her to provide enough food for her family.

Another resident, Mariama Koroma, said some households have been forced to reduce the quantity of food they purchase or switch to cheaper alternatives because of the price increases.

Bridget Koroma, also a market buyer, described the situation as a growing challenge, saying the amount of money her family normally sets aside for food is no longer enough to meet their needs.

Meanwhile, food trader Fatmata Kaikai attributed some of the increases to higher transportation costs and difficulties accessing farming communities during the rainy season.

According to Kaikai, heavy rainfall and poor road conditions make it difficult for traders to transport locally produced food from farming communities to Pujehun Town, affecting both the availability and prices of some commodities.

Residents and traders are calling for increased support to local farmers, improved feeder roads and better transportation networks to strengthen the supply of food commodities and reduce the impact of seasonal transportation challenges.

They say improved access to farming communities could help increase the availability of locally produced food and ease pressure on household budgets as the rainy season continues