Fuel scarcity: Food prices, transportation costs soar in Douala

Just four days of fuel scarcity in Douala have had a devastating effect on Douala, causing a sharp rise in the prices of essential food commodities in several markets across the city.

From tomatoes and yams to apples and oil, basic necessities are becoming increasingly unaffordable for many residents.

At the Bonamoussadi market, a bustling hub for food vendors, the frustration is palpable.

Maria Rose, a long-time tomato seller, points to a crate of wilting tomatoes. “Look at these,” she says, her voice tinged with anger. “I bought them at a higher price than usual because the driver charged me double the normal fare. Now, how can I sell them at the same price and make any profit?”

“I bought 5 gallons of oil yesterday from Kompina town and it was hell bringing them back here in Douala.

“The transport fare has practically tripled and the drivers are saying it is due to fuel scarcity. I have never spent like this before in purchasing my goods. Now I am obliged to increase the retail price because I need to cover my transport fare to be able to make some profit,” Maria added.

The domino effect is clear. With the fuel shortage driving up transportation costs, vendors are forced to pass on the burden to consumers.

Tomatoes, once a staple in Cameroonian cuisine, have seen their price jump by nearly 30% in some markets.

Yams, a popular source of carbohydrates, have also become more expensive, while the cost of apples has increased by a staggering 50%.

“I buy my apples at the central market to resell. Since last weekend, it has been difficult for me to purchase because the transport fare is extremely high, and it is difficult to first of all see someone who will transport you,” says Bertrand, an apple vendor.

“This is because of fuel scarcity. This has led us to increase our retail prices and reduce the quantity per pack.

“The government should do something. How can one pay 5,000frs as transport fare for a short distance still within Douala? It is even higher than transport fare to my village,” Betrand adds.

The situation is particularly dire for low-income families, who rely on these basic food items to survive. “I used to buy a kilo of tomatoes every other day,” says Joseph, a father of three. “Now, I can only afford half that amount. It’s like the fuel shortage is taking food right off our plates.”

The government, via a communique, reassured the population that things would come back to normalcy by Tuesday, December 12.

But things seem to be getting worse with filling stations still running dry and many traveling far distances to get the precious liquid.

This lack of action only adds to the mounting frustration of Douala residents.

“We need solutions, not silence,” says Maria, echoing the sentiments of many.

“The fuel shortage is a problem, but it shouldn’t become a crisis for people who are just trying to put food on the table.”

The rising food prices in Douala are a reminder of the interconnectedness of the city’s economy.

A disruption in one sector can have cascading effects throughout the system, leaving the most vulnerable to bear the brunt of the hardship.

The fuel issue, for now, is seriously dealing with the towns of Yaoundé, Bafoussam and Douala and if not quickly resolved might extend to other regions.

This will mean almost all Cameroonian households will suffer the increase in prices of basic commodities.

Mimi Mefo Info