Kadjebi traders lament over low sales despite cedi stability
Traders in Kadjebi in the Oti Region have expressed concern over persistently low sales despite the recent appreciation of the Ghana Cedi against major foreign currencies.
The traders said they had anticipated an increase in customer patronage and improved business turnover following the strengthening of the local currency, but the situation on the ground had not reflected those expectations.
They disclosed this to the Ghana News Agency (GNA) during a market survey conducted at some hardware shops, cosmetic outlets, provision stores, and the main Kadjebi market on Tuesday, March 17.
Speaking with the GNA, Mr Kudjo Ntiamoah, a hardware dealer, said although the cost of importing some goods had slightly reduced due to the appreciation of the cedi, customers were still reluctant to spend.
“Prices of some items have been adjusted marginally, but people are not buying as we expected. Many customers complain they still don't have enough money,” he said.
Mr. Ntiamoah, who is also the owner of K. Ntiamoah Enterprise, appealed to the government to pay cocoa farmers to help boost the local economy.
Ms Francisca Nyame, a cosmetics dealer, told the GNA that sales had been slow over the past few months, adding that the appreciation of the Cedi had not yet translated into increased demand for her products.
“Even though suppliers have reduced prices a bit, customers are still buying in small quantities or not buying at all. Some say they don’t have money,” she explained.
At the Kadjebi Market, Madam Vida Aku Amanu, Financial Secretary to the Kadjebi Market Women Association, also expressed similar sentiments.
She noted that traders across different categories were experiencing low patronage, which was affecting their ability to restock and sustain their businesses.
“The Cedi appreciation is a good sign, but it has not impacted our sales as expected. People are still struggling, and that reflects in the market,” she said.
Madam Amanu appealed to the government to complement currency gains with policies that would improve livelihoods and increase disposable income among citizens.
Some consumers who spoke to the GNA indicated that although they were aware of the Cedi's appreciation, their spending habits had not changed significantly due to ongoing financial constraints.
The GNA market survey revealed that while a few traders had slightly reduced prices of goods, many others were cautious about making adjustments due to market uncertainties.
Traders in Kadjebi remain hopeful that sustained economic stability and further improvements in the currency would eventually translate into better business conditions and increased sales.
GNA