Small scale vegetable traders have been left struggling to maintain their business following increased operating costs and reduced consumer spending.
Mary Wanjiku who has been selling Sukuma wiki, spinach, cabbage, tomatoes, potatoes, and traditional vegetables such as managu and Kunde for about five years said customers have been buying smaller quantities as household budgets have been squeezed by rising cost of living.
“When prices increase, customers complain and some reduce their budgets. Others choose cheaper vegetables instead,” she said. She has been forced to adjust her stock and prices after the cost of vegetables and transportation was increased.
Vegetables like Sukuma wiki, spinach, cabbage, manage and ‘kunde’ that were sold at Sh10 a bunch now costs Sh30. Potatoes have also increased by 100 per cent.
“I started this business because I needed a source of income to support my family. However, things have become difficult because the prices charged by suppliers have gone up,” said Wanjiku.
The vendor has also been affected by vegetables that remain unsold and eventually become spoilt. She said she had incurred heavy losses whenever fresh produce fails to attract buyers before going bad.
“Some vegetables are spoilt because they are perishable and I have to throw them away which means I lose the money spent in purchasing them,” Wanjiku said.
Despite the challenges faced, Wanjiku has continued operating the business being her main source of income. “My family depends on this business, so I cannot give up. I also have regular customers who support me, and I hope the business will continue to improve,” she said
Similar challenges have been reported by vegetable traders in different parts of Kenya, with rising transport costs and food prices having been linked to reduced purchasing power and increased pressure on small businesses.
Wanjiku called for the government to put in place measures aimed at supporting small-scale traders and also lower transportation costs. She also urged customers to continue supporting small businesses saying many families have been dependent on them.
by Mitchelle Ayuma and Grace Naishoo
