The prices of vegetables such as carrots, lettuce, and green peppers have surged by nearly 100% across Ghana, creating significant challenges for vendors and consumers alike.
This sharp increase has led to a decline in sales and forced many vendors to dispose of perishable goods, as they struggle to maintain profitability.
A vegetable trader at the Ejisu market, described the current prices saying, “Two of the carrots are selling at 15 Ghana cedis, and four of the green peppers go for 5 cedis”. She emphasized that lowering prices would not allow her to break even.
Moreover, another vendor, noted that the cost of her commodities, including cabbage and lettuce, has doubled. “You could get more for the vegetables you buy. But now you will get less,” she lamented.
The traders attributed the price hike to the scarcity of vegetables and the increased costs associated with transporting them from neighboring countries. “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,” explained one trader.
Ghana has traditionally imported a significant portion of its vegetables from countries like Côte D’Ivoire, Burkina Faso, Niger, and Mali. However, changing weather patterns and logistical challenges have exacerbated the situation, leading to the current scarcity.
Expert Analysis on Sector Challenges
Experts highlighted the need for a shift in agricultural practices to address the recurring issue of price surges. Dr. David Anambam, Director of Agriculture in the Ejisu municipality, pointed out that the reduced supply of vegetables is a major factor contributing to the soaring prices.
Dr. David Anambam emphasized the importance of irrigation systems for year-round production, stating, “Many farmers are not working now during the off-season, especially those without irrigation. Because there are a few left and the demand is more than the supply, it will surely shoot up.”
Anthony Okyere, a vegetable farmer recounted the difficulties faced by farmers due to extreme weather conditions. “The high sun intensity burnt all the crops. I nearly gave up after seeing my farm,” he shared.
Proposed Solutions for Sustainable Agriculture
Dr. Natson Eyram Amengor, an agricultural economist at the Crops Research Institute of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, proposed several solutions to mitigate the impact of climate change on agriculture.
“If we want an immediate solution, it would be on improving the access roads and for the long term, we should look at moving away from rainfed agriculture. We must enhance our storage and processing systems. Most often there are not storage facilities, so during the times where there is an abundance of foodstuff, they go to waste.”
Dr. Natson Eyram Amengor
The increased prices of vegetables have led to low sales and significant post-harvest losses for vendors. “Our commodities are spoiling. We have to dispose of them,” Dorcas lamented. The financial strain on vendors is considerable, as they are unable to sell their goods at prices that cover their costs.
Despite the current challenges, there is hope on the horizon. Dr. Anambam assured that an influx of vegetables is expected in the coming months. “Somewhere in June-July, we should expect more vegetables on the markets once the farmers begin to have the rains,” he said. This anticipated supply increase could help stabilize prices and alleviate the current strain on both vendors and consumers.
Meanwhile, thesteep rise in vegetable prices in Ghana is a multifaceted issue, influenced by weather patterns, transportation costs, and systemic challenges within the agricultural sector. While immediate relief may come with the rainy season, long-term solutions require investment in irrigation, improved infrastructure, and better storage facilities.
READ ALSO: AfDB Revises Ghana’s Growth Projections Upward for 2024 and 2025
