Commodity Prices Worsen as Cooking Oil Hits Over Kshs.3,200 per 10L

The cost of commodities in the country is still on a rising spree amidst the ongoing political activities. The craziest price increment so far is cooking oil which has become the new gold in the country. The cost of 10 liters of Fresh Fri, for instance, has jumped to 3,274 shillings, up from an average of 1,200 shillings in 2021.

A liter of Avena Cooking oil now costs 385 shillings, up from about 250 shillings in 2021. The same commodity costs 1,080 and 1700 shillings for 3 liters and 5 liters, respectively

Meanwhile, the cost of a kilogram of the blue band has also spiked to 408 shillings, up from 350 shillings in just a week at Carrefour.

At the same time, wheat products have also witnessed higher price increments since the Russia Ukraine war began. A 400g Festive bread costs 60 shillings from 50 shillings a month ago, while a 2kg packet of Ajab Home Baking wheat flour is 182 shillings up from 160 shillings in the same duration.

The recent shortage of milk in most parts of the country has also pushed the prices high, with a 500 grams packet now retailing at 60 shillings, up from 50 shillings last month. There are speculations that customers will currently be limited to just one packet in major supermarkets if the shortage continues.

Here is a list of commodities whose prices are rising:

The situation in the country has pushed Kenyans to dig deep into their pockets to cater to the cost of the essential commodities.

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Some have been compelled to switch to other alternative products to save on cost, while others who cannot afford the alternatives have to cut off from using specific products.

As we approach April, which is the planting season, the sign of rains coming has brought some hope to the many farmers who had given up on planting this season. But even with the rains pouring (in case it does), the cost of farm inputs such as fertilizer remains a considerable problem.

Today, a 50Kg bag of fertilizer is trading at between 6000 and 7000 shillings in most parts of the country.

The consequence of this is the increase in the price of maize, as well as maize flour, that is already witnessed across the country

Experts have predicted that the situation might even worsen in the coming months if proper initiatives are not taken as soon as now.

For instance, if the subsidized fertilizer is not supplied to farmers, food production in 2022 might drop significantly. Traders will take advantage of the situation and increase the prices further.