High maize prices leave Malawians struggling

In the wake of inflation and recent devaluation of the kwacha blamed on rising commodity prices, Malawians are facing high food prices, with thousands battling to put food on the table.Rachel Vuyiyi, who sells potatoes on the side of the road is one of many feeling the brunt of the high food costs. Vuyiyi says she is worried she will not be able to feed her six children who are all still in school.“Imagine I spend the whole day here and only make enough for a small pack of maize flour for a meal with my children at home,” she told Reuters.The 41-year-old who mainly buys staple foods like maize and potatoes said she and her family are now surviving on one meal a day.“We are now used to skipping meals. Like this lunch hour, we have not eaten. I am cooking sweet potatoes here and this is to be served for dinner. We are eight in my family and life is not easy,” she said.The country&#039;s year-on-year inflation rose to 19.1% in May from 15.7% in April, according to the National Statistical Office.Fuel also hiked by an average of 35% to cover the rising cost of imports, the Malawi Energy Regulatory Authority (MERA) said last week.A maize shop owner said he is also feeling the squeeze, as his sales have taken a significant dip over the past few months. Speaking to Reuters, Elliot Chepa said a variety of factors are causing the high maize prices, including climate change affecting crops.“As it stands Malawi should brace for tough times,” he said standing inside his shop that is packed with huge bags of maize that he is struggling to sell.Protest groups calling themselves "Concerned Citizens" have massed in cities in recent months demanding the resignation of President Lazarus Chakwera, whom they accuse of mismanaging the economy and failing to shield the poorest from inflation. -Reuters

High maize prices leave Malawians struggling

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Namibian Sun 2025-04-04

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High maize prices leave Malawians struggling

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Namibian Sun 2025-04-04

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