Visionary Reports

The staple fruit could be found on almost every street corner but still expensive.

Mangoes, a staple fruit in Cameroon, are in season, with every fruit vendor displaying them for sale. However, mangoes have become a luxury fruit in Douala. Despite their availability in local markets, the prices of mangoes remain high, making them unaffordable for many residents. According to vendors at the Douala markets, a basket of mangoes that usually costs between CFA 10,000 and 12,000 now sells for CFA 18,000 to 25,000, depending on the variety and quality. As a result, Madam Pauline Manong, who sells mangoes along the “feu rouge” roundabout in Douala, disclosed that she sells seven medium-sized mangoes for CFA 1,000 and 15 bigger ones for CFA 2,000. Another vendor, Madam Josephine Yawac, who sells at the Citidelle junction in the Ndongbong neighborhood, sells five small mangoes for CFA 500. She stated that mangoes are available but still expensive, even in the rural areas where they source them. This has led to a situation where many people can no longer afford to buy mangoes. Madam Yawac attributed the high prices to transportation, storage, and the fact that it’s the beginning of the mango season. “The cost of transportation is high, and we have to pass on these costs to the consumers,” she said. She hoped that the prices would drop in the days ahead as the mango supply increases. The high prices of mangoes have had a significant impact on the local population, particularly those in low-income households. “I can’t afford to buy mangoes for my children at the moment,” said Marie, a resident of Douala. “Each time I return from work, I see them everywhere, but they’re priced from CFA 500 and above. It’s a shame because mangoes are a nutritious fruit that my children need, and they love them,” she concluded. Mr. Ebendibe Michael said he was waiting for the prices to drop so he could buy mangoes for his family. He regretted that although mangoes are grown throughout Cameroon, they remain expensive even in season. “Mangoes are everywhere, but still out of reach,” he added.

By GINA ESONG