By Sylvia
Commodity prices in Fort Portal City have increased ahead of Eid al-Fitr, with Muslims preparing to break the 30-day fasting period.
A mini-survey conducted across several markets in the city on Thursday afternoon indicates a noticeable rise in the cost of essential food items. Vendors attribute the increase to high demand as households prepare for the celebrations.
At Kundaire Market, the price of a bunch of bananas (matooke) has risen from Shs30,000 to Shs35,000. A 25-kilogram bag of rice now costs Shs120,000, up from Shs110,000, while a litre of cooking oil has increased from Shs8,000 to Shs10,000.
However, meat prices have remained relatively stable, ranging between Shs9,000 and Shs10,000 per kilogram across various butcheries in the city.
Some residents have expressed concern over the price hikes. Ms Kemigisa Shamim, a Muslim shopper in Fort Portal, said she expected prices to remain stable but was surprised by the increase.
She called on traders to consider the financial constraints faced by many families and adjust prices accordingly.
Another resident, Muhamud Hussein, noted that the price increases are not limited to food items, but have also affected clothing, particularly garments commonly worn during the celebrations.
Muslims across Uganda are expected to mark Eid al-Fitr on Friday, signaling the end of the holy month of Ramadan.