Ouagadougou: an air of celebration floats over the city… despite inflation

As the end-of-year holidays approach, the Minister of Commerce warned against any “unjustified increase in prices of consumer products» which he himself said he had observed and required, in a press release, traders to display prices.

But given the rather difficult economic situation the country is going through, the Ouagalais intend to be part of the celebration. “I came to buy alloco and potatoes for the party. I see that things are looking very good, the city is busy. Let's say that the prices of the products are rather acceptable. We try to make do with it”confided Ousseni Drabo, a customer.

Poultry, spices, fresh vegetables… are the most sought after by customers like Mrs. Bationo for whom the holidays in Burkina Faso, as elsewhere, have always been synonymous with soaring prices. “I came to the market, to buy some condiments. Prices are nevertheless higher than in previous years. For example, a can of oil today costs around 7,000 CFA francs compared to 5,500 previously. It's expensive, just like cucumbers and carrots» she notes.

Beauty and sewing salons are always crowded this time of year. At the Pissy market in Ouagadougou despite inflation, Ms. Nacro's hair salon is full. “We are currently processing orders from last week. Some people come directly to the salon for installation. There are beautiful people and there is something for all price ranges,” she said.

For many Burkinabè people, the end of year celebrations are above all a special time for families and children. Some people pay the price because they think it's an opportunity to make people happy.