With Ramadan and the Christian Lent, the markets of Kindia are teeming with people. But behind this seasonal activity lies a growing concern: the prices of basic necessities have risen alarmingly, further weakening households already struggling with a difficult economic situation.

At the central market, the observation is unanimous. Rice, palm oil, onions, sugar, and other basic necessities have seen their prices skyrocket. Discussions often boil down to one phrase: "Everything has become expensive."

Families caught in a bind

Among the customers, Makalé Bangoura, a mother, expressed her distress: “It’s really difficult for us. Every week, we see another price increase. Before, with a certain amount of money, I could buy enough food for several days. Now, I’m forced to reduce the quantities and sometimes even stop buying certain products altogether. Ramadan is a month of faith and sharing, but how can we share when we struggle to feed our own families? We humbly ask the authorities to think of low-income families and to take concrete steps to alleviate our suffering.”

Aïssatou Diallo, whom we met in front of an onion stall, shared the same sentiment: “Look at the price of onions and palm oil. Everything has gone up in a short time. We run small businesses, and our husbands have limited incomes. As Ramadan approaches, expenses naturally increase: we have to prepare for breaking the fast, host guests, and help relatives. But with these soaring prices, many families risk having a very difficult month. We need serious market regulation to prevent abuses.”

Traders point to rising upstream costs

Faced with criticism, the traders defend themselves and claim that they too are suffering the consequences of the crisis.

Lama Seny Rose, a red palm oil vendor, explains: “A can of red palm oil is selling for 350,000 Guinean francs today, an increase of 50,000 to 70,000 francs compared to previous weeks. This increase isn't our doing. Suppliers in the Forest Region of Guinea have raised their prices. On top of that, there are transportation costs, taxes, and fuel. If we sell for less, we're operating at a loss.”

For his part, Mamadou Oury Camara, a wholesaler at the main market, confirms: “The increase is widespread. The costs of transporting goods to Kindia have skyrocketed. When the price of fuel goes up, everything else follows. We understand the customers' anger, but the solution must come from broader regulation, not just pressure on vendors.”

A worrying situation ahead of the fasting periods

As Ramadan and Lent approach, households in Kindia fear a worsening situation. Between rising prices, stagnant incomes, and a lack of regulation, the average household's budget is shrinking a little more each day.

While awaiting concrete actions from the government to stabilize the markets, families hope to live through these periods of faith with dignity, without precariousness stifling the spirit of solidarity and sharing that traditionally accompanies them.