Kenyan consumers are feeling the pinch as onion prices soar to unprecedented heights following a significant reduction in imports from Tanzania. The scarcity of Tanzanian onions has triggered a sharp increase in local onion prices, with the commodity now trading at a staggering KSh150 per kilogram. The shortage has been further exacerbated by a decline in local onion production, attributed to soaring production costs and persistent drought conditions that have plagued Kenyan farms in recent years.
According to data from the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS), the price surge for onions is part of a broader trend. Between May and June 2023, prices for carrots, onions (both leeks and bulbs), tomatoes, and maize grain-loose have witnessed notable increases of 9.0%, 7.3%, 6.4%, and 5.5%, respectively.
Traders in various markets are struggling to stockpile onions due to the exorbitant costs. Benjamin Kamanja, chairman of traders at Chaka market, revealed that Tanzanian onions have long been favored for their superior quality, competitive pricing, and reliable supply. However, with the reduced imports from Tanzania, traders are now grappling with the scarcity and its impact on their businesses.
Moreover, consumers have developed a preference for Tanzanian onion bulbs due to their superior drying process, resulting in longer shelf life compared to locally grown onions. As a result, the demand for Tanzanian onions has surged, further driving up the prices.
Farmers in Tanzania are capitalizing on the situation, selling their onions to Kenyan traders for prices ranging between KSh115 and KSh120 per kilogram. Just a few months ago, the same quantity of onions was available at a mere KSh30 to KSh40 per kilogram, making the current prices nearly five times higher. This unprecedented increase in prices is directly linked to the limited supply from Tanzania, and the situation shows no signs of improvement in the near future.
Chairman Benjamin Kamanja expressed concerns over the prolonged shortage, stating, “There is very little onion coming from Tanzania, and we are heavily dependent on their supply. This means that prices will continue to rise because of the shortage.”
With no immediate resolution in sight, Kenyan consumers and traders are bracing for the impact of the onion crisis on their daily lives and businesses. As the country grapples with onion scarcity, experts suggest exploring alternative solutions to boost local production and mitigate the effects of reduced imports.
By: Montel Kamau
Serrari Financial Analyst
19th July, 2023
photo source: Google
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