The trade in maize and cassava chips is facing a dizzying rise in prices in Matadi, capital of Kongo-Central. This situation worries consumers, who are seeing their purchasing power decline in the face of a limited supply and significantly rising costs.
At the central market in Matadi, the price of a 1 kg scoop of maize went from 1,000 Congolese francs to 1,500 Congolese francs in the space of a week. Similarly, the cassava cossette which previously sold for 6,000 Congolese francs is now offered at 10,000 Congolese francs.
Several reasons are put forward to explain this price increase. On the one hand, the scarcity of these food products is attributed to the state of the agricultural service roads, as well as to the roads of national and provincial interest located in the territories from which the cassava flour comes. As these infrastructures are severely degraded, the transport of foodstuffs is made more complicated, which leads to a drop in supplies on local markets.
On the other hand, some sellers also claim that the crop production this season has not been enough to meet the growing demand. Moreover, some unscrupulous distributors might stockpile the products for the purpose of making future profits, thus contributing to this price increase.
This increase in maize and cassava prices raises concerns about the food security of local populations. The authorities must take appropriate measures to ensure an adequate supply of basic foodstuffs and guarantee affordable prices for all.
In conclusion, the rise in maize and cassava chip prices in Matadi is a worrying issue for consumers in the region. It is necessary to find solutions to improve the food supply and maintain reasonable prices in order to guarantee the food security of the population