As many people prepare to usher in the new year, the sharp rise in poultry prices is causing distress for households already wrestling with economic challenges.
Across major markets in Accra, fowls are selling for GH¢ 250 to GH¢ 350, depending on their size, leaving many families unable to afford this staple for their celebrations. The surge in prices has dampened the festive spirit, forcing some to adjust their plans.
At Mallam Market, Madam Elizabeth Boateng shared her frustration after realizing her GH¢ 500 budget was insufficient. “The seller initially quoted GHS 350 for a medium-sized fowl. After much pleading, I got it for GHS 300, but now I have no money left for oil or other ingredients,” she lamented. Her story mirrors the struggles of countless shoppers coping with the inflated costs of items during the holidays.
Poultry traders attribute the price hikes to increased feed costs, transportation difficulties, and heightened demand during the festive season. At Kaneshie Market, some vendors noted that customers who previously bought multiple fowls are now scaling back, opting for smaller birds or skipping purchases altogether. This shift has left sellers with mixed feelings while they benefit from higher prices, the reduced volume of sales is affecting their overall revenue.
Food vendors, who rely heavily on poultry for their businesses, are also feeling the pinch. Mariama Awudu, a rice and stew seller at Nima Market, disclosed that she had to scale down her poultry purchases significantly. “I’ve had to change my menu because I can’t afford the usual quantity of chicken. My customers are unhappy, and it’s hurting my sales,” she explained.
In response to the surging prices, some households are turning to alternative protein sources, including fish and canned meat. However, even these options are experiencing price increases, compounding the financial strain on families trying to maintain traditional holiday meals. The shift to substitutes is a clear indication of how inflation is reshaping the festive experience for many.
Amid the economic turmoil, a few individuals are resorting to creative coping strategies, such as pooling resources with neighbours for group purchases or substituting poultry with locally available options. Nonetheless, the skyrocketing poultry prices accents the broader inflationary pressures burdening households. Many are calling for government intervention to address the rising cost of living, as hopes for a joyous New Year celebration hang in the balance.
