In Ouagadougou, the capital of Burkina Faso, vegetable stalls are showing an unusual sight. Tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, and bell peppers are becoming scarce, with prices soaring beyond the reach of many consumers. A pile of five tomatoes, which previously cost between 100 and 200 CFA francs, now sells for 300 to 400 CFA francs, according to local market vendors.
The price surge is attributed to a combination of factors, including reduced harvests due to irregular rainfall and ongoing security challenges in agricultural regions. Farmers in areas like the Boucle du Mouhoun and Hauts-Bassins regions have reported lower yields, partly due to attacks by armed groups that have disrupted farming activities.
Market vendors in Ouagadougou's central markets, such as Rood Woko, confirm that supply has dropped by about 30% compared to the same period last year. This has led to a ripple effect, with prices for other vegetables like onions and cabbage also rising.
Consumers are feeling the pinch. 'We used to buy tomatoes every day, but now we have to ration,' said Aminata Ouedraogo, a mother of four. The government has announced plans to import vegetables from neighboring countries to stabilize prices, but logistics remain a challenge.
