A market vendor talking to Kerr Fatou reporter
By Fatou Sillah
As the holy month of Ramadan unfolds, vendors at Serekunda Market say they are grappling with soaring food prices that are making it increasingly difficult to sustain their businesses. Many are calling on the government to intervene, warning that the rising costs of staple goods are putting immense strain on both sellers and consumers.
Binta SaidyKhan, a vendor at the market, said the economic challenges have been particularly pronounced this Ramadan. The high cost of foodstuffs, she said, has left many traders struggling to make ends meet.
“This market is very difficult during Ramadan. Our business is barely surviving,” Ms. SaidyKhan said in an interview. “Imagine selling a basket of tomatoes for three days while still having to pay duty tax—it’s extremely challenging. We are exhausted. A bag of rice is nearly 3,000 dalasis now. The country is struggling, and I think it’s time for change.”
For Mariama Jaiteh, another vendor, the downturn in sales has been stark. She said the slow-moving market is making it increasingly difficult to provide for her family.
“Our business is not working this Ramadan. It’s very difficult,” Ms. Jaiteh said. “We used to sell a bucket of fish in a day, but now it takes three. Every day, we worry about how we will survive. If we had someone to help us, it would make a big difference.”
The struggles extend beyond just a few vendors. Dembo Darboe, another trader at the market, said the rising cost of locally produced goods is outpacing even that of imports.
“Everything is expensive now, but what’s worse is that locally produced goods are the most costly,” he said. “We need to have sympathy for each other and lower prices. We are also asking the government to recognize the struggles of market vendors and offer support. The rising cost of CFA currency is making matters worse, affecting the price of essential goods.”
Some vendors attribute the price hikes to external factors, including foreign competition in key industries. Haddy Jassey, who sells fish, said the market is particularly tough this year due to increased costs, which she blames on the presence of Chinese fishing companies operating in Gambian waters.
“Selling fish in the market is very difficult this year,” Ms. Jassey said. “Fish is expensive, and customers are buying less. I believe prices have gone up because of the Chinese fishing companies here.”
Comparing this year’s Ramadan to previous ones, vendors say the financial strain is becoming worse.
“Last year’s prices were better,” said Jabou Sarjo, another trader. “Last Ramadan, onions were selling for 1,300 dalasis per bag. This year, they’re 1,600. Rice, sugar, and oil are all more expensive. The market is tough for women this year, and we need the government’s help.”
With weeks still remaining in Ramadan, vendors say they fear conditions could deteriorate further, deepening hardships for both businesses and households.