The Rwandan Ministry of Trade and Industry has deployed teams across the country, in order to inquire into factors behind drastic rise in Irish potato prices among other food prices to the extent that has been recorded for the first time. Jean-Chrysostome Ngabitsinze, the Minister of Trade and Industry: “We have sent teams to the field. We will have a report this coming Friday after properly understanding the factors behind the price increase.”
One farmer from the Nyange area of Musanze district attributed the spike in prices to heavy rains which were followed by prolonged dry spells. According to her, the yield is at its lowest in as many years: “Currently, a kilogram of potatoes which are even of poor quality goes for Rwf400 at the farm gate and over Rwf500 in close urban areas such as Musanze town. It is the first time we are experiencing such hike.” In Kigali, a kilo goes for up to Rwf600.
Other farmers attributed this to the increase in inputs, like seeds and fertilisers which has ended up discouraging some farmers from continuing to grow the crop, creating a shortage.
Food and non-alcoholic beverages prices in urban areas increased by 29.2 per cent YoY during the month of August. The prices for vegetables increased by 35.5 per cent while overall prices for the whole year compared to last year increased by 20 per cent.
[ Rwf100 = €0,096 ]
Source: newtimes.co.rw