Torit Mayor Approves Butchers’ Request to Raise Prices

(Torit) – The cost of beef in Torit town has increased following an official decision by the Torit Municipal Council to approve new prices proposed by the local butchers’ association.

The changes are aimed at aligning meat prices with current market conditions and maintaining the sustainability of the meat trade.

Under the new pricing structure, a kilogram of steak beef now costs 16,000 South Sudanese Pounds (about USD 12.55), up from the previous price of 14,000 SSP (approximately USD 11.00).

The cost of stew beef, which includes bone, has risen from 18,000 SSP (USD 14.12) to 20,000 SSP (USD 15.68) per kilogram.

The price hike comes after the Torit Butchers Association submitted a request to the municipal authorities two weeks ago, stating that the old prices were no longer viable due to increasing operational costs.

The association warned that without an adjustment, local beef supplies could diminish, especially as more cattle from Kapoeta are reportedly being redirected to Juba, where meat prices are higher and profits more attractive.

Ahamad Abdalah Adam, a representative of the Butchers Association, said the increase is a temporary measure to balance business sustainability and community needs.

“We want to try this new price so that it doesn’t affect the civilian population while keeping our business viable,” he explained.

Torit Mayor Oyito Baptist confirmed the approval of the new prices, saying the goal is to stabilise the meat market and ensure that both traders and consumers benefit from predictable supply and pricing.

The mayor added that allowing competitive trade will help prevent further shortages, particularly as beef supplies remain under pressure from shifting regional trade patterns.

The rise in beef prices reflects broader economic challenges in South Sudan, where inflation, transport costs, and currency fluctuations continue to affect food affordability in both urban and rural areas.

Although Torit is a smaller market compared to Juba, it remains a key hub for meat supply in Eastern Equatoria State.

Many households in Torit rely on beef as a primary source of protein, and the recent adjustment is expected to impact daily meal planning for low income families.

Local authorities are under increasing pressure to balance economic realities with public welfare, particularly in essential sectors such as food and fuel, as the cost of living rises across the country.