Traders at Daraja Mbili market in Kisii County are facing tough economic conditions as falling prices and lack of buyers make it challenging to sustain their livelihoods. Located in Kitutu Central Sub-County, Daraja Mbili market has seen significant price drops for staple produce like cabbages, bananas, onions, potatoes, and carrots, adding to the frustrations of local vendors who are now struggling to make ends meet.
A recent spot check by KNA revealed a sharp decline in prices across the market. For example, the price of a sack of potatoes has dropped from Sh6,000 last month to Sh3,000, while a bunch of bananas has fallen from Sh100 to Sh70. Only tomatoes have bucked the trend, with prices rising from Sh5,000 per crate to between Sh6,000 and Sh6,500.
Janet Obare, a cabbage vendor, lamented that cabbage prices had fallen to just Sh20 per head, down from Sh70, with customer turnout remaining low. “If this situation doesn’t improve, I may have to explore other ways to support my family,” she shared.
Lilian Moraa, a banana seller, expressed similar concerns, noting that increased production had led to lower prices, but demand remained poor. Everline Kerubo, who sells potatoes, highlighted the steep drop in potato prices, which are now at Sh3,000 per sack, down from Sh6,000, with still few buyers.
Onion trader Joash Mong’are mentioned that prices had fallen from Sh120 to Sh90 per kilogram within the past month, adding to the financial strain for sellers.
Consumers, too, are feeling the pinch. Many shared that the high cost of living has reduced their purchasing power, making even basic food items difficult to afford. Grace Kemunto, a local buyer, noted that her salary barely covers her essential needs, forcing her to make difficult choices when shopping. “I can’t afford luxuries like tomatoes and peppers. I just add a bit of oil to Sukuma wiki, and that has to be enough,” she explained.
The vendors are hoping for an upturn in market conditions, but with the current economic challenges, both traders and buyers are struggling to stay afloat.
