The prices of vegetables such as carrots, lettuce, and green pepper have skyrocketed, affecting sales and forcing vendors to dispose of perishable goods.
According to traders, the scarcity of these commodities and high transportation costs from neighboring countries have led to the price hike. “We import some from Asante Mampong and others from Morocco. They are scarce because of the low rainfall. The lorry fares have also shot up the price,” they explained.
Helen, a vegetable trader at the Ejisu market, said, “Two of the carrots are selling at 15 Ghana cedis, and four of the green pepper go for 5 cedis. I can’t sell this small quantity at a lesser price because I won’t break even.”
Dorcas, another vendor, lamented, “You could get more for the vegetables you buy. But now you will get less.” She sells cabbage, lettuce, and other vegetables at the market, which have seen a price increase of almost 100%.
Experts attribute the dwindling agricultural sector growth to changing weather patterns and logistical challenges for farmers. Dr. David Anambam, Director of Agriculture in the Ejisu municipality, emphasized the need for irrigation-dependent farming systems for all-year-round production.
Dr. Natson Eyram Amengor, an agricultural economist, suggested improving access roads and moving away from rain-fed agriculture to address the perennial challenges. “We must enhance our storage and processing systems. Most often, there are no storage facilities, so during times of abundance, foodstuff goes waste,” he said.
Despite the prevailing scarcity and challenging economic climate, vegetable consumers and traders can expect an ease soon. “Somewhere in June-July, we should expect more vegetables on the markets once the farmers begin to have the rains,” Dr. Anambam assured.
