Yam prices surge at Nana Bosoma market due to irregular rainfall and high farming costs
Yam sellers at the Nana Bosoma Market in Sunyani have attributed the recent hike in yam prices to irregular rainfall this year and the high cost of farming inputs.
According to the sellers, the inadequate supply of yam in the market has also contributed to the increased prices.
Currently, 100 tubers of yam are sold for between GHS 6,000 and GHS 7,500 at farm gates across the Bono Region.
The price of yam is notably higher at the Nana Bosoma Market compared to the same period in 2023. Three tubers of yam cost GHS 50, depending on the size, with others going for up to GHS 100.
Yam sellers at the market have denied allegations of deliberately increasing prices. They cite irregular rainfall patterns recorded in the Bono Region and the rising cost of farming inputs as the primary reasons for the price hike.
Rebecca Ataa Yeboah, a yam seller, explained that poor rains have led to a shortage of yam, predicting an increase in supply in the coming months. She noted that the Fiaso community is currently the main source of yam.
Another seller, Akosua Yeboah, emphasized that the high costs faced by farmers due to expensive farming inputs are driving up the price, with sellers only adding a small margin for profit.
Afia Serwaa added that increased costs of farming inputs and labour are contributing factors, forcing farmers to hire additional labour, which adds to their expenses.
She noted that this is not the first year they have faced challenges in acquiring yam, with prices reaching between GHS 5,000 and GHS 7,500 for 100 tubers.
