By Fatou Sowe
Words in the streets within the urban settlements of the Gambia has it that the prices of basic commodities such as rice, cooking oil and vegetables are on the increase. As a result, this reporter went out and about the gauge people’s reaction on the issue.
At Serekunda market, Isatou Faal a housewife, has this to say.
“I understand that the whole world is experiencing hardship and the Gambia is no exception, however the hight cost of living for my family is gradually becoming difficult as a result of this issue. I urge the government to do something because Ramadan is approaching and if this continues my husband would find it difficult to make ends meet for the family.”
For her part, Ramatoulie Bah a vendor at Sinchu Alhagie said she is a petty trader through which she meets her financial needs and that of her young family.
“ I have been in business for more than 5 years but my experience this year is not encouraging because not only are imported goods expensive, but vegetables that are cultivated in the country are sometimes more expensive than the imported ones.
Alieu Jeng a shop owner in the Coastal Road market revealed that it is normal for the prices of goods to go up mostly at this time of the year and such has become a trend in the past years.
“In my opinion I think those complaining are the lazy ones who expect government to feed them. I urge people especially the youths to work rather than blaming the government or businessmen for their failure to work and earn a living.”
