Food prices drop

The price of tomatoes has fallen with predictions that they would continue to go down after weeks of skyrocketing prices. A kilogramme of the commodity is now trading at Rwf 300, down from Rwf 600. According to farmers, the prices are expected to continue dropping even further as two of the major tomato growing areas, Ngoma and Kirehe districts, are expected to register bumper harvests. However, a tomato farmer in Ngoma District, Chantal Uwanyirigira, complained about the frequent fluctuation of tomato prices. “The prices are either very high or very low…this has been the case for long which undermines our efforts. Once other areas begin to harvest their produce this season, we expect the tomato prices to fall further,” she said.Most farmers sell their produce in large quantities due to lack of storage facilities.Meanwhile, bananas, a staple food in Eastern Province, have also registered a price decrease. According to Rwamagana District Agricultural Officer, Innocent Ukizuru, consumers are spending less on bananas and signs are that they would continue to enjoy low prices up to November when food prices are expected to rise drastically.”That’s how the market forces work...the dictates of supply and demand. A bunch of bananas is now at Rwf 200 from Rwf 600. It’s not good for farmers but it’s good for consumers,” he said.

National

Food prices drop