The rising prices of food are taking a toll on the Muslim community during this Ramadan period.
Items such as dates, Hausa Kooko, Koose, and Pinkaso have seen a significant increase in price, affecting many Muslims.
For instance, Pinkaso, which used to be sold for 50 pesewas, is now priced at 1 cedi, while the price of a whole Koose has doubled from 1 cedi to 2 cedis.
Many businesses are still struggling due to the challenging economic situation, and those within the Zongo communities are not spared.
Ramatu Kabiru is one of many vendors in Aboabo and Sawaba who hope to make sales during this Ramadan.
However, her Koose business is struggling because of the high cost of beans and other essential ingredients.
She believes that if the prices of raw materials were reduced, it would significantly improve her business.
“Owing to the high cost of beans, we increased the Koose price from 1 cedi to 2 cedis, and Pinkaso also went up from 5 pesewas to 1 cedi. Due to that, people are not buying. The business is very slow here. Before the fasting, it was better, but now the market is very slow,” she stated.
Ramadan is observed worldwide by Muslims as a month of fasting and is regarded as one of the Five Pillars of Islam.
The observance lasts twenty-nine to thirty days, beginning with the sighting of the crescent moon.
Although this month is believed to be filled with blessings, many Muslims are finding it difficult to purchase essential items, including food.
Abiba Suleman, who sells Hausa Kooko, tells Orange News her business has not fared well this year, just as it did last year.
“The business has been slow this year, just like last year.The high price of millet is affecting my business. The price of a bag surged from 350 to 1200 cedis, with a reduced quantity, so it’s affecting the business,” She said.
Consumers like Suleman Abubakar says food prices are exorbitant and calls for government intervention.
