Pawpaws in, pineapples out

 

The supply of pawpaw to Kampala markets continued to increase after the harvest season started at the close of last month.

 

About two weeks ago, the price of a large pawpaw came down to sh3,000 from sh5,000 in Nakasero, Kibuye, Owino and Kalerwe markets. 

 

This change in price, however, leaves the pineapples that are currently in low supply and costly (about sh6,500 each) at risk of being left out of consumers’ shopping lists. 

Most traders said they would invest in pineapples next month, when the harvest season is expected to start.

 

By close of last week in Kibuye, Owino, Nakasero and Nakawa markets, cabbage stood a greater chance of being bought by consumers because they were selling relatively lower (sh2,500 each) than the other leafy vegetables like sukuma wiki that was selling at between sh6,000 to sh8,000 a bundle.

 

In Nakasero market, a bundle of coriander, which was costing sh6,000 a month ago rose to sh10,000. 

Traders attribute the price to heavy rains, which have caused flooding in swampy areas, where most of the vegetables are grown.