Wa market records stable prices of foodstuffs but low patronage

Women selling foodstuffs at the Wa Central Market have expressed worry over low patronage of food commodities for the second quarter of 2019, which they blame on “lack of money in the system”.

A market survey conducted by the Ghana News Agency for the second quarter of 2019, revealed that prices of foodstuffs remained unchanged while consumption level has dropped significantly compared to previous months.

Business activities were reported less vibrant and sluggish but a cross-section of salespersons believed that most buyers and sellers have abandoned marketing because of the farming season.

The quarterly survey showed a bowl of millet cost GH¢6.00 while a bag being sold at GH¢240.00 with a sack of maize going for GH¢150.00.

A bowl of maize was going for GH¢4.00 as at June ending with a bowl of beans sold at GH¢14.00 but a sack of beans cost GH¢550.00.

Again, a sack of cassava was being sold at GH¢60.00 while a sack of groundnut went for GH¢600.00 with a bowl going for GH¢15.00.

In an interview with the GNA, Madam Memuna Kasim, cereals seller, said there had been no corresponding increase in demand despite stable prices recorded over the period.

“The prices of foodstuffs remain stable over the past few months but the market is not booming at all,” she said.

“Since morning, I have sold only a bowl of groundnut, which value GH¢15.00 and I use that to feed my children for the day, so what to eat at home is what I am thinking about now,” she added.

Madam Kasim who is depending on food commodities business to cater for nine children also said last year’s business was flourishing as more food commodities were being purchased but this time round, “the atmosphere is dull”.

Madam Pognaa Nabie, cassava and maize seller, also said patronage was low even though prices of cereals remained unchanged and attributed that to the farming season as most people were busy farming.

Some sellers said though business was not booming as it should, they were hopefully it would pick up in the coming months.