Just days before the end-of-year holidays, the Kédougou market is facing a sudden surge in potato prices, accompanied by a worrying shortage of the product. A staple food that is highly valued by households is becoming increasingly difficult to access, causing incomprehension and discontent among consumers.

According to observations made in local markets, a kilogram of potatoes, which recently sold for 750 CFA francs, is now selling for 1,000 CFA francs, an increase of 250 francs per kilogram. A 25-kilogram bag, commonly known as an "ASC," is being offered at 20,000 CFA francs, a price considered excessive by many low-income households.

Consumers caught in a bind

For the residents of Kédougou, this price surge comes at the worst possible time.

"Potatoes are essential during the holidays. With these new prices, we are forced to reduce the quantities or do without them," laments Aïssatou Camara, a mother of a family encountered at the central market.

Mamadou Diallo, a young worker, shares the same observation: "Everything is going up at the same time. Rice, oil, and now potatoes. At 1,000 francs per kilo, it's no longer affordable for everyone."

Shopkeepers are reporting supply difficulties

From the retailers' perspective, the situation is explained by supply problems and strong seasonal demand.

"Deliveries have been very low these last few days. We are receiving fewer bags than before, while demand is exploding as the holidays approach," explains a retailer at the weekly market in Kédougou.

Another trader adds: "We don't set prices randomly. Transport costs have increased and the goods are scarce. That's what explains these high prices."

A speculation denounced

Despite these justifications, some consumers denounce speculation fueled by the artificial scarcity of the product. Indeed, only a few retailers currently have stock, thus increasing the pressure on the market.

Faced with this situation, many voices are calling on local authorities and trade services to strengthen price controls and secure supplies in order to relieve the population, especially during this period of high consumption.

While awaiting possible measures, households in Kédougou will have to cope with this sudden increase, which puts even more strain on an already fragile purchasing power.