Women in Yei Decry Rising Market Prices in Yei Town

(YEI RIVER COUNTY)– The chairperson of the Yei Women Association in Yei town has raised concern over the sharp increase in prices of agro-produce in local markets over the past months.

According to Alice Siyama, despite improved harvests recorded last year, many women are still struggling to put food on the table due to soaring food prices and limited market supply.

Speaking to the media, Siyama noted that:

“In the past, prices have gone extremely high and now a bag of maize that used to cost 15,000 SSP has risen to 17,000 or 18,000 SSP. A bag of cassava flour is now at 20,000 SSP. We are seeing scarcity in the market, and food prices are becoming too expensive for poor women.”

She emphasized that although agricultural production improved in some areas last year, food shortages persist in local markets. Siyama also pointed to food storage facilities in Kimbi area that remain empty, highlighting concerns about distribution and supply chain challenges.

Call for Cooperative Action

Siyama is urging both men and women in Yei to form and strengthen cooperative societies to boost food production this year.

“I am seeing some cooperatives in Yei, but there is not enough food. Some areas recorded low crop yields last year. I appeal to the people of Yei to double their efforts and produce enough food this year.”

She further called on non-governmental organizations (NGOs) operating in the county to expand support for farming initiatives, including agricultural inputs, training, and food storage support to help stabilize prices and ensure food security.

The rising costs of staple foods such as maize and cassava flour continue to strain households, particularly women who often shoulder the responsibility of feeding families in Yei River County.