Chicken prices soar in Mwanza as Muslims celebrate Idd-ul-Fitr

Mwanza. In Mwanza, the prices of chicken skyrocketed yesterday as Tanzanians joyfully celebrated Idd-ul-Fitr, a significant occasion that marks the end of fasting during the holy month of Ramadhan.

A market survey revealed that the cost of chicken surged from an average of Sh20,000 to as high as Sh55,000, depending on the size and quality of the birds.

This dramatic increase in chicken prices has led some residents to turn to beef, which has become an appealing alternative due to a drop in its price from Sh10,000 to Sh9,000 per kilogramme.

The survey, conducted by a Mwananchi reporter, took place at the bustling Buhongwa and Mkuyuni markets in Nyamagana District, as well as the vibrant Mbogamboga market in Ilemela District.

Observations showed that the price of a rooster had jumped from Sh30,000 to an astonishing range of Sh45,000 to Sh55,000. Meanwhile, hens are now sold at prices between Sh25,000 and Sh30,000, reflecting an increase from Sh20,000 prior to the festive season.

Local consumers are expressing their frustrations, attributing the steep price hikes to traders who exploit the holiday demand for chicken and ducks. 

“They know that during holidays, ordinary people must buy chicken, which is why they manipulate the prices,” lamented Ms Amina Shabani, a resident of Mkolani. “I bought a chicken for Sh25,000, but just a few days ago, the same chicken was available for Sh20,000.”

Another resident, Ms Ashura Salehe from Mkuyuni, recounted her experience while purchasing a rooster. After negotiating for a discount, she ended up paying Sh45,000, down from an initial asking price of Sh50,000. “I had no choice,” she explained, her voice tinged with frustration.

“I left home with my children excited about a chicken dinner. I checked three different stalls, and the prices were all consistent. The first two vendors offered it at Sh55,000 but then reduced their prices to Sh50,000. Finally, the third vendor agreed to sell it to me for Sh45,000, so I had to take it.”

A chicken vendor, who chose to identify himself only as Kulwa from Buhongwa Market, offered insight into the situation, explaining that the soaring prices stem from increased transportation and purchasing costs incurred when sourcing chickens from rural areas.

His perspective sheds light on the underlying economic pressures affecting both consumers and vendors alike in the community.