Chronicle Editor
Nokuthaba Brita Ncube, [email protected]
TRADERS have increased the price of cabbage in Bulawayo citing supply shortages with farmers saying most of their crop has been adversely affected by the recent incessant rains.
Cabbage prices began to skyrocket during the festive season when demand was high, with small heads being sold for as much as US$1 and larger heads costing over US$2, with some reaching as high as US$3.
At some supermarkets with limited stocks, the vegetable sections have gone to the extent of cutting cabbage heads in half and offering each for about ZWG$30, which is equivalent to about US$1.
Vendors have highlighted that their suppliers were affected by heavy rains experienced in the country, which have a huge impact in the supply chain.
Another trader, Mr Abel Ngulube, said the few available suppliers were charging exorbitant prices for bulk supplies, which forces them to pass on the burden to the end consumer.
Others said they now get their orders from farmers far away from Bulawayo, which imposes a transport cost burden.
“We hardly get a steady supply of cabbage from nearby farmers and those who bring it to the market are coming with an expensive price, which leaves us with no choice but to pass on the costs to consumers,” said the vendor.
A local farmer, Mrs Xolile Ndlovu, said many farmers planted cabbage during the winter season and exhausted their supplies during the festive season resulting in shortages.
She said those who planted the crop during the summer season have faced challenges with pests and diseases, which make growing a successful crop difficult as it requires a lot of chemicals.
Agronomist Mr Washington Ngirazi said the rain season was not good for cabbage farmers.
“A lot of people had planted cabbage before but the price was so disappointing. The low prices led to a lot of farmers losing confidence in cabbage, which is what is bringing the shortage,” he said.
He, however, lamented the adverse impact of incessant rainfall this season, which frustrates the crop by increasing pest and disease pressure on the farmers.
One consumer pointed out that she now prefers to buy other varieties of vegetables but cannot resist buying cabbage, as she can use it for multiple purposes, such as salads and relishes.
Online Reporter