The recent increase in the price of charcoal in the town of Beni, located in the province of North Kivu in the Democratic Republic of Congo, is a current issue that deserves particular attention. This significant increase in charcoal prices is observed in various markets in the city and has direct repercussions on the daily lives of residents, charcoal sellers and restaurant owners.
According to information collected in the field, the scarcity of embers is one of the main reasons given by sellers to explain this surge in prices. Indeed, the latter stressed that the insecurity reigning in the region directly impacts the supply of wood, the main component of charcoal. The dangers of harvesting wood in the forest deter many workers, leading to a decrease in supply and an increase in costs.
Louise Masika, a charcoal seller interviewed, testified to this reality by explaining: “Before the war, we bought a bag of charcoal at a much lower price than today. However, with the “Insecurity prevailing in certain manufacturing areas, the cost of production has increased, which has an impact on the final sale price for consumers.” This situation highlights the multiple consequences of armed conflicts on the local economy and the cost of living for residents.
This increase in the price of charcoal has a direct impact on households and restaurants in the region, who commonly use this fuel for cooking their meals. Angèle Aziana, owner of a restaurant in Beni, shared her concern about this situation: “We are seeing a considerable increase in the price of charcoal, which impacts our operating costs. This makes our activity more difficult and directly affects our profitability, especially since other alternatives such as gas are also expensive.”
It is crucial to highlight the importance of charcoal in many Congolese homes, where it is a pillar of traditional cooking and an essential part of everyday life. Faced with this increase in prices and supply difficulties, it is necessary to find sustainable solutions to guarantee the accessibility of this vital fuel for many families.
In conclusion, the increase in the price of charcoal in Beni reflects the economic and security challenges facing the region. This situation highlights the need for concerted actions to support local stakeholders, preserve the environment and ensure the availability of essential resources for the population.