The recent suspension of meat sales in Nebbi district, following a Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) outbreak, has led to a sharp increase in demand for fish, silverfish, and beans in local markets.
Two weeks ago, Nebbi district authorities imposed the ban after FMD cases were reported in the Kucwiny sub-county, Lee Parish, in late November last year. The outbreak resulted in the death of 26 animals early on, prompting the authorities to take swift action.
In response, fish and silverfish traders have seen a significant boost in sales, capitalizing on the market gap left by the absence of meat products. With fewer competitors due to the ban, many dealers have raised prices to match the soaring demand. Fresh fish prices have surged, with a kilo now costing between 18,000 Shillings, up from 14,000 Shillings just a month ago.
Patrick Onoba, a fresh fish dealer at Nebbi Main Market, commented, “We are enjoying the profit margins because there’s no room for maximum bargaining with customers since there’s little competition due to the ban on meat sales.”
Silverfish sellers are also experiencing a windfall. Beatrice Acen, a silverfish dealer in Nebbi town, reported a significant jump in sales. “Before the ban, I sold two basins of silverfish a week. Now, I can sell four basins in just two days,” she said. The price for a plastic cup of silverfish has increased from 1,500 Shillings to 2,000 Shillings, almost doubling the original cost.
Fish prices have also risen dramatically. Small fish that once sold for 3,000 Shillings per piece are now fetching 6,000 Shillings, while larger fish like Angara, which were previously priced at 20,000 Shillings, now sell for between 25,000 to 30,000 Shillings.
Dr. William Abedkane, the District Veterinary Officer for Nebbi, emphasized that the district is still monitoring the spread of FMD, especially with new cases reported in the neighboring Paminya Akwecira and Oweko Parish in Ndhew Sub-county. As a result, the quarantine remains in effect, and officials are warning that anyone found selling animal products during the ban will face penalties under the Public Health Act.
“We can’t lift the quarantine while new cases are being reported. We encourage farmers to restrict livestock movement and report any suspicious signs of FMD,” Dr. Abedkane advised.
As the situation continues to unfold, the ban on meat sales shows no signs of ending soon, leaving the market for fish and silverfish booming in the meantime.
busiinge@ghettopost.com
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