Tice and potato prices have gone up in some markets around the city and suburbs over the past month. 

A mini-survey by The New Times around city markets and shops indicates that a kilogramme of Irish potatoes costs Rwf300 per kilogramme, up from Rwf200 at the beginning of January. Sweet potatoes go for Rwf250 per kilogramme in most city markets, up from Rwf150, while the price of plantains (bananas) increased to Rwf230 a kilo from Rwf150 four weeks ago.

A kilogramme of rice (Pakistan long grain) increased by Rwf100 to Rwf800, from Rwf700 in Kigali city and suburbs. In Nakumatt Supermarket, a kilo of rice ranges Rwf1,500 to Rwf3,600, depending on the grade and brand.

Traders attributed the increase to low supply from major producing areas, especially Northern Province districts of Burera and Gicumbi, among others.

Though traders say there was generally a marginal increase in cost of different commodities over the past month, prices of most food items and scholastic materials were stable across different city markets and shops.

A kilogramme of beans ranges from Rwf350 to Rwf700 per kilogramme in different markets, beef is unchanged at Rwf2,200 a kilo and cabbage goes for Rwf150 (small), Rwf200 (medium) and Rwf300 (big), respectively. Carrots go for Rwf900 a kilo in Nakumatt Supermarket, and are at Rwf500 in neighbourhood groceries and local markets.

Yellow bananas are at Rwf1,100 per cluster, pineapples cost Rwf500 each, mangoes go for Rwf2,500 a kilo in Nakumatt, and cost Rwf1,800 to Rwf2,000 a kilo in groceries and markets.

A litre of fresh milk is at Rwf350 at different dairies across the city, while packed milk is at between Rwf500 (half litre) and Rwf1,300 (litre).

Bread costs between Rwf800 and Rwf1,500, depending on brand, size, type, and whether one buys from a supermarket or small shops. A kilo of sugar ranges from Rwf800 to Rwf1,000 in city supermarkets and shops.

business@newtimes.co.rw