Pricing of major foodstuff in Uganda; January 2023

Neofacts conducted a Food Pricing Study in January 2023, following Uganda’s recent hikes in food prices. According to the Uganda National Bureau of Statistics, food prices increased by 3.3% in October 2022, with matooke prices rising by 15.6% to 75.4%. The study employs a Longitudinal Research Design which allows researchers to collect data over an extended period of time (months or years) to observe changes or developments in a specific group or population.

The goal is to track the same individuals or groups and study changes in variables of interest such as behaviour, attitudes, or characteristics. The study aimed to gather data and analyze food prices in different markets and regions and understand the factors that influence prices. The data collected will be useful for the government, food retailers, farmers, consumers, and other organizations to make informed decisions about food policy, security, and pricing strategies.

Data was collected from 4 central markets; Mbarara Central Market, Jinja Central Market, Gulu Central Market and Nakasero Market in Kampala. Data was collected on selected foodstuff through in-person interviews with market vendors and observation twice weekly. The summary findings are highlighted below;

Summary of Findings

Based on retailer data collected from Gulu, Jinja, Kampala, and Mbarara in January 2023, it was found that most commodities experienced a decrease in prices except for Matooke and beef. Specifically, the price of rice decreased by -9.05%, posho dropped by -14.83%, beans reduced by -2.43%, fish declined by -2.5%, Irish decreased by -15.03%, and sugar reduced by -6.2%. However, the price of Matooke increased by 12.53%, while the price of beef remained stable. In addition, the prices of fuel also decreased, with petrol being reduced by -3.33% and diesel by -3.85%. These findings suggest that there may have been changes in supply and demand or market conditions that have affected commodity prices in these cities.

A detailed report can be obtained among our publications on the website.